Semen analysis

A semen analysis is done to find out if:

• There is a reproductive problem that is causing infertility.
• A vasectomy has been successful.
• The reversal of a vasectomy has been successful.

• Do not have sex or masturbate for 2 to 5 days (but no longer than 1 week) before you collect the semen sample. This allows your sperm count to be at its highest. It also helps make sure the test is accurate.
• Collect the semen sample into the container your doctor gives you.
  • Wash and dry your hands and penis.
  • Ejaculate into the container. Do not use any lubricant or saliva. Do not use a regular condom to collect the semen, because the powder in it can kill sperm. Collect the entire amount of semen you produce.
  • Keep the semen close to body temperature. A good way to do this is by keeping the semen container in an inside pocket. Avoid getting the semen hot or cold.
  • If you'd prefer to collect the sample without masturbating, your doctor may give you a special condom to wear during sex to collect the semen.
• Take the semen sample to the lab or clinic within 1 hour after you collect it.

You may be asked to avoid any sexual activity that results in ejaculation for 2 to 5 days before this test. This helps to make sure that your sperm count will be at its highest. It also makes the test more reliable. If possible, do not avoid sexual activity for more than 1 week before this test. A long time without sexual activity may result in less active sperm.

You may be asked to avoid drinking alcohol for a few days before the test.

Be sure to tell your doctor about any medicines or herbal supplements you take.

Results of a semen analysis are often ready within a day.

• Volume. A high or low semen volume may cause fertility problems.
• Liquefaction time. If semen takes longer than usual to liquefy, this may be a sign of an infection.
• Sperm count. A low or absent sperm count can cause fertility problems and may be linked to certain conditions. These may include orchitis, varicocele, Klinefelter syndrome, radiation treatment to the testicles, and diseases that can cause shrinking of the testicles.
• Sperm morphology. The shape of sperm can affect how well they move and penetrate an egg. Sperm that have two heads or two tails, a short tail, a tiny head (pinhead), or a round (rather than oval) head may not function as well. Some of these sperm are usually found in a semen sample. But having a lot of these sperm may make it harder to fertilize an egg.
• Sperm motility. Sperm must be able to move forward (or "swim") through cervical mucus to reach an egg. A high percentage of sperm that can't swim well may make it harder to fertilize an egg.
• pH. A high or low semen pH can kill sperm or affect how well they can move or can penetrate an egg.
• White blood cell count. A high number of white blood cells and bacteria in the semen may be a sign of infection.

If problems are found, more testing may be done. Other tests may include measuring hormones, such as testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), or prolactin. A small sample (biopsy) of the testicles may need to be checked if the sperm count or motility is extremely low.