Semen Analysis (SA)

A semen analysis (SA) is a simple test done by males at the fertility clinics. The man will provide a semen sample by ejaculating into a cup in a private room. In some cases, the doctor may allow you to collect a sample at home, but it has to be still warm and delivered to the clinic within one hour. The doctor will also ask the male to abstain from masturbating or sex for 2-5 days before the test for most correct results.[1]

What SA Numbers Mean

The results are usually available within a week. There are 6 main parts to an SA: volume, concentration, motility, total motile count, morphology, and other. Following the World Health Organization (WHO) standards, the lower reference limits of an SA are as follows:

Volume

>1.5 mL (1.4-1.7)

Total Sperm Count

39 million (33-46)

Sperm Concentration

15 million (12-16)

Total Motility

>40% (38-42)

Progressive Motility

>32% (31-34)

Morphology

>4% (3.0-4.0)

If the man’s numbers fall below these numbers, it is cause for concern.[2] However, options such as medications, IUI and IVF are available, depending on the case. Your doctor will alert you to the results and what exactly they mean.

If you receive any male factor diagnosis and wish to read more information about it, please visit the Male Factor Infertility section listed in the menu.

[1] “Semen Analysis Report: Purpose, Procedure, & Results.” n.d. WebMD. Accessed April 30, 2018. https://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/guide/what-is-semen-analysis#1.

[2] World Health Organization. 2010. “WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen.” World Health Organization. http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/44261/9789241547789_eng.pdf;jsessionid=78099186F1FB9BB73FD5F5728DA72B61?sequence=1.