Assessing Quality and Quantity
Semen analysis is an important fertility test for infertile couples, and the test should be done before any treatments. Even if a fertility problem has been identified in the female partner, that doesn’t mean the male partner’s fertility is normal.
Semen analysis (sometimes called sperm count) measures the quality and quantity of a man’s semen and sperm. Semen is the thick, white fluid released during ejaculation that contains sperm
How is the sample collected?
The semen sample is collected by self-stimulation (masturbation) into a sterile container. This can be collected at home or in our office.
How do I prepare for my collection?
We ask that you please practice abstinence for 2-5 days before your collection.
Can I do my collection at home?
Yes, Generation Next Fertility allows for samples to be collected at home using a collection kit provided by our Andrology lab. The sample must be dropped off to our office by the patient, in person, within one hour of collection. Remember to bring a valid photo ID with you on the day of your appointment in order for us to confirm your identity.
- Do not use lubricants, condoms, or oral stimulation for collection. You can use the lubricant provided in the specimen collection kit provided by our Andrology lab.
- After the specimen is collected, tightly close the container, write your name, date of birth, and date/time of collection on the collection cup label. The cup can then be placed inside the specimen bag provided for transport.
- Please keep the collection cup at body temperature, do not store it with cold items or in ice.
What is Semen Analysis testing for?
- Semen Volume
- Total Sperm Count
- Total Motility
- Sperm Vitality
- Sperm Morphology
- Other Cellular Elements
What do my results mean?
What is my total sperm count?
The total sperm count is the total number of sperm in a semen sample.
How is sperm concentration different from sperm count?
Sperm concentration is the total amount of sperm cells in 1 milliliter of semen.
What is motility?
Motility refers to any sperm that are moving. For sperm, being able to swim to its destination is essential in the fertilization process.
What is sperm vitality?
Sperm viability refers to the amount of sperm that are alive in a sample. This is especially important to measure if sperm motility is low, to differentiate between live non-motile sperm and dead sperm.
What is morphology?
Sperm morphology refers to the shape of the sperm cells. The lab technician closely examines a sample of sperm visually, to get an approximate percentage of sperm cells that are shaped normally. This is done by evaluating the structure, proportions, and measurements of each individual sperm cell.
What is viscosity?
Viscosity is the rate at which semen liquefies. Semen is initially thick and viscous; the thicker the semen, the more difficult it is for sperm to travel.