A semen analysis is the main test of male fertility. It is usually requested when conception is delayed, before and after varicocele treatment, and after a vasectomy to confirm it has worked.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Samir Ahmed Al-Samarrai, consultant urologist. Last reviewed:
How to prepare
- No ejaculation for two to seven days.
- Collect the whole sample in a sterile container, preferably at the laboratory.
- If collected at home, deliver it within about an hour, kept at body temperature.
- Tell the doctor about any recent fever, illness or medicines.
Reference values
According to the World Health Organization manual (2021), these are the lower reference limits; a value below them does not on its own mean a man cannot father a child:
- Semen volume: 1.4 mL or more.
- Sperm concentration: 16 million/mL or more.
- Total sperm number: 39 million or more per sample.
- Total motility: 42% or more.
- Progressive motility: 30% or more.
- Normal forms: 4% or more.
After an abnormal result
- Repeating the test after several weeks.
- Examination of the testicles and checking for varicocele.
- Hormone tests and Doppler ultrasound.
- Further tests depending on the case, such as sperm DNA fragmentation or genetic tests.
Related topics
Frequently asked questions
How many days of abstinence before a semen analysis?
Usually two to seven days without ejaculation; the laboratory or doctor will advise the exact period.
Does one abnormal result mean infertility?
No. Results vary between samples, so the test is usually repeated before conclusions are drawn, and the result is interpreted with the examination and medical history.
What causes poor sperm quality?
Causes include varicocele, genital tract infections, hormonal disorders, smoking, some medicines, heat exposure and genetic factors.
Discuss your result with a doctor
Book a consultation with Prof. Al-Samarrai or Dr. Amer Mousa to review your result and plan the next step.
This information is for health education; results should be interpreted with your doctor. See our medical content policy.