semen analysis

A semen analysis checks for the following sperm characteristics:

• Motility: The sperm’s swimming ability
• Morphology: The shape of the sperm
• Count/Concentration: The number of individual sperm
• Vitality: The capacity of the sperm to live and endure

why it is done

Evaluating sperm is a critical aspect of infertility testing and can explain a couple’s inability to conceive as well as determine what therapy options are indicated. A severely low sperm count or low motility may suggest the need for an advanced approach, whereas a normal semen analysis might suggest a more conservative approach.

how it is done

A semen sample is usually collected by masturbation and the ejaculate deposited into a sterile specimen container. Lubricants should not be used unless approved by your healthcare provider or the lab processing the specimen. There are also specially designed condoms which allow for collection of a semen sample during intercourse.

To ensure the most accurate results, two to four days of abstinence are recommended before obtaining a semen sample for analysis. Longer periods of abstinence may increase the count, but the percentage of sperm that are actively motile may decrease. On the other hand, shorter periods of abstinence may result in some decrease in the number of sperm present.

Once the sample has been collected it should be delivered to the lab within one hour and kept close to body temperature but not above.