Semen Analysis: Collection Method and Normal Values
Semen Analysis: Collection Method and Normal Values
When couples try to conceive without success, many often begin by testing the female partner first, even though in reality, male factors account for a significant proportion of infertility cases. Semen analysis is a simple, painless test that provides essential information right from the first step of treatment planning.
What is semen?
Semen consists of sperm and various fluids. It is a thick, white liquid ejaculated when a male reaches orgasm through sexual intercourse, masturbation, or released naturally through what is known as a wet dream.
Generally, each ejaculation has a volume of about 3–4 milliliters and contains an average of several hundred million sperm.
Why perform a semen analysis?
In infertile couples, the male partner is found to be the cause in up to 25–40% of cases. Collecting a semen sample from the male partner for testing to determine the cause is therefore no less important than examining the female partner, and both should be done concurrently right from the start.
Semen analysis does not only look at sperm count or concentration, but also examines
- Sperm motility, or how well the sperm swim
- Sperm morphology, or whether there are abnormalities in the head, neck, and tail
- Semen volume and properties, such as pH level
How to properly collect semen
The collection method directly affects the accuracy of the test results, so the following instructions should be observed:
- Abstain from sexual intercourse and ejaculation for approximately 3–5 days before the test.
- Wash your hands and genital area thoroughly before collecting.
- Collect by masturbation only.
- Withdrawal during intercourse should not be used, as cells from vaginal secretions may be mixed in.
- Do not collect using a condom, as it contains lubricants that can kill sperm.
- Collect every drop of semen from the first to the last to ensure accurate analysis results.
- Place in a clean, dry container and send for testing immediately. Do not keep for more than 1 hour.
Normal values for semen analysis results
| List of Tests | Normal reference value |
|---|---|
| Semen Volume | 1.5 milliliters and above |
| Acidity-Alkalinity (pH) | 7.2 and above (slightly alkaline) |
| Sperm Concentration | At least 15 million per milliliter of semen |
| Total Motility | 40% and above |
| Normal shape (Morphology) | 4 percent or higher |
What each test result means
Sperm concentration, measured under a microscope or, in some facilities, using an automated analyzer. If the sperm count is below the standard threshold, the risk of infertility increases, and the lower the count, the higher the risk.
Sperm motility is calculated as the percentage of motile sperm. If it is below the threshold, it indicates that sperm are present but move poorly, resulting in fewer sperm being able to pass through the cervix into the uterine cavity.
Sperm morphology: Well-formed sperm have a higher chance of successful fertilization, which is why there must be a normal proportion of healthy-shaped sperm according to standard criteria.
If no sperm are detected at all, it is called azoospermia, which does not necessarily mean there is no chance of having children. A doctor will perform further tests to determine the cause, as some cases are due to a blockage in the sperm duct, which can still be treated. Therefore, you should consult a specialist before drawing a final conclusion.
Important: Semen analysis results can fluctuate based on overall health, stress levels, and the period of abstinence. If your initial results are abnormal, doctors usually recommend repeating the test to confirm the findings. A conclusion should not be drawn from a single test result.
Frequently Asked Questions About Semen Analysis
Does a semen analysis hurt? Do you need long preparation? It doesn't hurt. Simply abstain from ejaculation for 3–5 days prior to the test date and collect the sample according to the staff's instructions.
Why shouldn't condoms be used to collect semen samples? Because most condoms are coated with lubricants or spermicides, which kill sperm and lead to inaccurate test results.
Does an abnormal test result mean you are infertile? Not necessarily. An abnormal result simply means a reduced chance of natural conception. Currently, there are various treatment options and assisted reproductive technologies available, so you should consult a doctor for an individual evaluation.
When to get tested: Couples who have been regularly trying to conceive for 1 year without success should both get tested. If the female partner is over 35 years old, it is recommended to consult a doctor sooner.
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