Semen Analysis Explained

Semen analysis is often the first male fertility test. It's straightforward and gives useful information about sperm count, movement, and shape.

What's measured

• Volume — how much fluid is produced
• Sperm count — how many sperm per millilitre
• Motility — what percentage swim forward well
• Morphology — what percentage have normal shape

How to prepare

Abstain from ejaculation for 2–5 days before the sample — not longer. Collect the sample as the lab instructs. One abnormal result often warrants a repeat test a few weeks later.

Reading the result

Results are compared against standard reference ranges, but a single figure rarely tells the whole story. Sperm counts naturally fluctuate, and things like a recent fever, illness, stress, or a short abstinence gap can skew one sample. That's why a result below the reference range is usually confirmed with a repeat test a few weeks later before any conclusions are drawn. It's also worth remembering that a 'normal' analysis doesn't guarantee conception, and a below-range one doesn't rule it out — it's one piece of a couple's fuller picture.

If results are abnormal

Because sperm take about 2–3 months to mature, lifestyle changes made now show up in a sample a few months later. Simple steps help: stop smoking, cut back on alcohol, keep a healthy weight, manage stress, and avoid prolonged heat near the testicles. A specialist can then explain whether IUI, IVF with ICSI, or other options make sense — abnormal results don't always mean IVF is the only path.

When to speak to a doctor

Consider a semen analysis if you've been trying to conceive for 12 months without success, or sooner if there's a history of undescended testicles, testicular injury or surgery, mumps after puberty, previous chemotherapy, or a low sex drive or difficulty with erections or ejaculation. Don't wait for the female partner's tests to come back first — male factors contribute to a large share of fertility issues, so testing both partners together saves time.

Common mistakes

• Treating one below-range result as final instead of repeating the test
• Abstaining for far longer than 2–5 days, which can distort the sample
• Assuming fertility is only the woman's issue and delaying male testing
• Expecting lifestyle changes to show up in weeks rather than 2–3 months

If you're unsure when to start testing, our guide on when to seek fertility help explains the usual timelines, and the IVF resources hub covers treatment options if they're needed.

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Speak with a qualified doctor about your specific situation.