Should You Get a Semen Analysis?
When you're trying to conceive (TTC), it’s easy to focus solely on ovulation, menstrual cycles, and hormone levels. However, male factor infertility contributes to around 40–50% of all TTC issues — and a semen analysis is the simplest, fastest way to check for that.
Not only is it minimally invasive and cost-effective, but it also offers vital data that can save you weeks or months of uncertainty and stress.
This in-depth guide covers everything: what’s analysed, how to interpret results, what influences semen quality, and what to do with abnormal findings.
1. Why a Semen Analysis Matters
Studies estimate that male factors play a role in nearly half of all fertility struggles, yet men are often tested later in the process.
Here’s why it’s essential to test early:
- Time efficiency: Sperm testing is simpler than invasive female investigations.
- Informed decisions: Results help guide IUI, IVF, sperm freezing, or lifestyle changes.
- Emotional clarity: Concrete answers reduce the guesswork and ease stress between partners.
2. What a Semen Analysis Shows (WHO Standards)
The WHO’s 6th Edition outlines reference ranges — but context always matters. One off result doesn’t equal infertility.
Key parameters:
- Volume – ≥1.5 mL
- pH – 7.2–8.0; outliers may suggest infection
- Concentration – ≥15 million/mL or 39 million per ejaculate
- Motility – ≥40% total motile; ≥32% progressive
- Morphology – ≥4% normal forms
- Vitality – ≥58% live sperm
- Liquefaction – Should liquefy within 60 min
- Viscosity – Should allow free movement
- Leukocytes – <1 million/mL (higher may indicate infection)
- Fructose – Low levels may suggest seminal vesicle issues
📌 To understand these terms better: Your TTC Glossary
Extended testing may include:
- DNA fragmentation
- Sperm chromatin integrity (SCSA/SCD)
- Acrosome reaction
3. Sample Result Interpretation
Here’s an example of what real-world results might look like:
| Parameter | Result | Ideal Range |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 2.0 mL | ≥1.5 mL |
| Concentration | 20 M/mL | ≥15 M/mL |
| Motility | 30% | ≥32% (slightly low) |
| Morphology | 3% | ≥4% (borderline) |
| Vitality | 55% | ≥58% (close) |
🔎 In this example, volume and count are good, but some motility/morphology parameters could be optimised. This individual may still conceive naturally, but improving sperm health may help or speed things up with assisted techniques.
4. When Should You Get Tested?
A semen analysis is recommended:
After 6–12 months of TTC without success
If you’re 35+, have a history of miscarriage, or using home insemination
Before starting IUI or IVF
5. Factors That Affect Results
Biological Variability
Sperm parameters can change dramatically between samples. Most clinics recommend:
- 2 samples spaced 2–4 weeks apart
- Abstinence window: 2–7 days for best accuracy
Lifestyle & Environment
- Heat (laptops, hot tubs, tight underwear) damages sperm DNA
- Alcohol, smoking, obesity, and soya can reduce count and quality
- Mobile phones & EMFs may reduce motility
- Pollution and endocrine disruptors are linked to poor sperm health
📌 Supportive habits: 9 Lifestyle Habits That Support Fertility
Illness, Stress & Medications
- Fevers and illnesses (like flu or COVID) can impact sperm production for months
- Stress, poor sleep, or medications (like NSAIDs, testosterone) also interfere with sperm health
6. What to Do if Results Aren’t Perfect
Repeat Testing
Wait 8–12 weeks, optimise health, then retest.
Lifestyle Optimisation
- Lose weight if BMI >25
- Quit smoking, reduce alcohol
- Take antioxidants: zinc, folate, vitamin C, CoQ10
- Reduce heat and screen exposure
📌 Support your mindset too: Fertility & Mental Health: How to Cope During TTC
Medical Follow-Up
- Blood tests (FSH, LH, testosterone)
- Ultrasound for varicoceles or obstructions
- Sperm freezing before delays or procedures
Final Thoughts
A semen analysis is more than just a test — it’s a roadmap. It offers information, clarity, and control. Even if your results aren’t perfect, most parameters can improve significantly with small changes.
Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the journey, this test can take away some of the guesswork and help you move forward with confidence.
Keep Reading: Helpful TTC Guides
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