Semen Analysis

Semen analysis is a test used to assess male fertility. It provides detailed information about the health and quality of sperm, which can help individuals or couples understand their reproductive health and any potential challenges they come up against when trying to conceive. Semen analysis is often the first step in diagnosing male fertility issues but can also be used to confirm the success of a vasectomy.

What is a semen analysis?

Semen analysis, also known as a sperm count test, evaluates the quality and quantity of sperm in a semen sample. It examines and assesses various parameters that influence male fertility and reproductive health.

What does a semen analysis detect?

A semen analysis assesses several key factors, including:

• Sperm count – The number of sperm per milliliter of semen

• Sperm motility – The percentage of moving sperm and their efficiency

• Sperm morphology – The size and shape of sperm

• Volume of semen – The amount of semen produced during ejaculation

• pH Levels – This determines if the semen is too acidic or alkaline, which can affect sperm survival

• White blood cell concentration – High levels may indicate infection or inflammation

• Liquefaction time – The time taken for semen to change from a gel to a liquid form, affecting sperm mobility

When is a semen analysis needed?

You may be recommended to undergo semen analysis if you have:

• Fertility concerns – If you have been trying to conceive for over a year without success

• Just had a vasectomy – Post-vasectomy testing is done to confirm the absence of sperm after the procedure

• Reproductive health issues – Testing may be appropriate if you have a condition like erectile dysfunction or hormone imbalances

• Unexplained medical symptoms – Some symptoms can indicate an infection or testicular condition that can affect sperm production

Semen analysis process

Semen analysis is a very simple, quick and non-invasive process.

After a consultation with one of our fertility specialists, you will be given a strike container to collect the sample at home.

Please contact TDL to make an appointment to submit the sapmle. Once the sample is ready, please arrange to deliver it to the lab within an hour to be examined, keep it at body temperature in your pocket, this will be examined  under a microscope to access the parameters listed above. The results are then compiled and will be delivered to you by your consultant at a follow-up appointment.

How Should I Prepare for a Semen Analysis?

To ensure you provide the sample that will give the most accurate results, we advise all patients to:

• Abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 5 days before the test , no longer than 7 days

• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, as they may affect sperm quality

• Not use any lubricants, lotions or other products when producing the sample, as they can contaminate the sample and interfere with sperm motility

• Ensure they collect their sample directly into the sterile container provided

Semen analysis results

What results should a normal semen analysis show?

The results of a healthy semen analysis should show:

• Sperm count: 15 million or more per milliliter

• Motility: At least 40% of sperm should be moving

• Morphology: At least 4% of sperm should have a normal shape

• Volume: 1.5-5 milliliters per ejaculation

• pH Level: Between 7.2 and 8.0

If your results are outside the normal range, further tests may be required to diagnose underlying issues and identify the best course of treatment or fertility intervention.

How OneWelbeck support you after semen analysis

If the results of your semen analysis are outside of the normal range, your OneWelbeck fertility specialist will discuss at-home and medical treatment options that may improve your sperm quality. They may also suggest treatments such as IUI and IVF, which may help increase your chances of conceiving.

Fertility problems can cause a mental and emotional strain. Working closely with experienced colleagues within the OneWelbeck network, our consultants can make fast referrals to mental health specialists should you need or want additional support.