Semen analysis is a diagnostic procedure that assesses the amount and quality of semen that a biological male produces. The test is a standard evaluation for infertility investigations and is usually the first step taken in determining the cause of infertility.

This test measures a few key factors of semen, including the volume, motility, morphology, and concentration of sperm. The analysis is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional in a laboratory setting, with the sample collected by the individual providing the semen.

Semen analysis is an essential tool in identifying male fertility issues, and with the help of this test, doctors can recommend a personalized treatment plan for their patients and their partners to achieve a healthy pregnancy.

Normally, a man will produce between 1.5 and 5 milliliters of semen. The number of sperm within each milliliter is also measured, and a healthy number is typically between 15 million and 200 million sperm/ml.

Sperm quality is evaluated by looking at the shape and structure of the sperm cells. Normal, healthy sperm cells have a smooth, oval shape with a single, long tail. Abnormal sperm may have a shorter or curved tail, double heads, or additional flaws that can hinder their ability to access and fertilize a woman’s egg.

The movement or motility of the sperm is also analyzed. Healthy sperm can swim rapidly and move towards the egg. A normal analysis will display at least 40% of the sperm with good forward motion, and a higher percentage is preferable.

In terms of quantity, a good sperm test result should show a sufficient number of sperm cells in the sample. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a typical sperm count is 15 million to 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Anything below this range may decrease the chances of fertilization.

The quality of the sperm is another important factor. A good sperm test result should show that the majority of sperm cells have normal shapes and sizes. Sperm with abnormal shapes or sizes may have difficulty fertilizing an egg, leading to infertility.

Motility of sperm movement, also needs to be taken into consideration. A good sperm test result shows that a significant percentage of sperm are actively moving in a forward direction. This suggests that the sperm cells are capable of swimming through the female reproductive system to fertilize the egg.

Healthy sperm are essential to fertility and conception. A man’s sperm count, motility, and morphology can greatly affect his ability to father a child. Though it is difficult to determine the quality of one’s sperm without a semen analysis, here are some general signs of healthy sperm:

● Sperm count: The average sperm count is 15 to 200 million per milliliter. A low sperm count can affect fertility and make it difficult to conceive, while a high sperm count can result in poor-quality sperm.

● Sperm motility: Healthy sperm should be able to swim in a straight line quickly and have forward movement in order to get to the egg.

● Sperm morphology: This is a reference to the sperm’s general size and form. A small or malformed head or several tails are characteristics of aberrant sperm, whereas normal sperm have an oval head and a long tail.

● Semen volume: The range for healthy semen volume is 1.5 to 5 milliliters per ejaculation. A low semen volume can indicate issues with the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, or epididymis.

● pH level: The pH of healthy semen should fall between 7.2 and 8.0. High acidity can damage sperm and decrease their motility.

● Speed. Sperm should swim at a steady and consistent speed, covering a distance of 25-30 micrometers per second.

● Color: Healthy semen is typically a pearly white or gray color. Yellow or green semen can indicate an infection or other health concerns.

Semen analysis can help hopeful parents get to the bottom of their infertility issues. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Provo UT, Orem UT, Mapleton UT, Vineyard UT, Highland UT, North Logan UT, Hyde Park UT, Smithfield UT, Benson UT, Logan UT, and surrounding areas.