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Male factors contribute to roughly half of all infertility cases, yet many couples test only the woman for months before checking the man. A semen analysis is simple, painless and gives answers within a day. Here is how to read every line of your report.
What Is a Semen Analysis?
A semen analysis checks the quantity and quality of sperm in a semen sample. It is usually the first test for the male partner when a couple has difficulty conceiving. The sample is collected by masturbation into a sterile container, ideally at the clinic, after 2 to 7 days without ejaculation.
Semen Analysis Normal Values (WHO Reference)
The World Health Organization (WHO) publishes lower reference limits for semen. Values at or above these limits are considered within the normal range.
| Parameter | Normal value (WHO lower limit) | What it measures |
|---|---|---|
| Semen volume | 1.4 mL or more | Amount of fluid |
| Sperm concentration | 16 million per mL or more | Sperm per millilitre |
| Total sperm count | 39 million per ejaculate or more | All sperm in the sample |
| Total motility | 42% or more | Sperm that move |
| Progressive motility | 30% or more | Sperm that move forward |
| Normal morphology | 4% or more | Sperm with normal shape |
| Vitality | 54% or more live | Live sperm |
| pH | 7.2 or more | Acidity of the semen |
A “normal” result does not guarantee fertility, and a result below these limits does not mean you cannot father a child. These numbers are a guide that helps the doctor choose the next step.
Common Terms on Your Report
- Oligospermia (oligozoospermia): Low sperm count, below 16 million per mL.
- Asthenozoospermia: Poor sperm movement.
- Teratozoospermia: Too few normally shaped sperm.
- OATS: A combination of low count, poor movement and abnormal shape.
- Azoospermia: No sperm found in the sample.
- Pus cells (leukocytes): A high number may point to infection.
Why One Abnormal Report Is Not the Final Word
Sperm take about 70 to 90 days to develop, and a fever, illness or stress during that time can lower your count temporarily. That is why doctors usually repeat an abnormal test after 4 to 12 weeks before making a diagnosis.
What Can Lower Sperm Quality?
- Smoking, alcohol and tobacco chewing
- Obesity and diabetes
- Heat exposure: hot baths, laptops on the lap, long hours of driving
- Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Infections, including past mumps
- Hormonal problems such as low testosterone or thyroid disorders
- Some medicines and anabolic steroids
- Genetic causes
Treatment Options Based on Your Report
The right treatment depends on how far your results are from normal.
- Mildly low values: Lifestyle changes, treating infection or varicocele, and timed intercourse may be enough.
- Moderately low values: IUI (intrauterine insemination) places washed, concentrated sperm directly in the uterus.
- Severely low count or motility: IVF with ICSI, where a single healthy sperm is injected into each egg.
- No sperm in the sample (azoospermia): Sperm may be retrieved directly from the testis by TESA or PESA and used for ICSI.
Your doctor may also recommend advanced tests such as sperm DNA fragmentation, hormone tests or a scrotal ultrasound.
Semen Analysis at Ayuh Fertility Centre, Ahmedabad
At Ayuh Fertility Centre in Ranip, a private collection room ensures comfort and confidentiality. Samples are analysed in our in-house lab, and Dr. Krupa Shah explains the report to both partners together, so that treatment decisions are made as a couple.
Need a semen analysis or a second opinion on your report? Call or WhatsApp +91 94260 28483 to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal sperm count to get pregnant?
A concentration of 16 million per mL or more and a total count of 39 million or more are within WHO normal limits. Pregnancy is possible with lower counts, sometimes with help.
How many days of abstinence before a semen test?
Usually 2 to 7 days. Follow your clinic’s instructions.
Is 2% morphology normal?
It is below the 4% reference. Many men with 2% morphology still father children, especially with IUI or ICSI.
Can sperm count improve naturally?
Yes, often. Stopping smoking, losing excess weight and avoiding heat can improve results within 3 months.
Can the sample be collected at home?
Collection at the clinic is preferred, because the sample should reach the lab within about an hour at body temperature.