Semen analysis also called a spermiogram, is an analysis to evaluate sperm parameters. Semen analysis is the most important male infertility test, so it is the first-line analysis to be done in the fertility assessment of the couple.
Preparing for semen analysis:
- Avoid both sexual intercourse and masturbation for at least 2 to 5 days before the test, but not longer than 1 week.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco 2 to 5 days before the test.
- Do not visit the sauna and do not take a very hot bath at least 1 week beforethe test.
The sperm sample is collected in a sterile sample container with the patient’s information and then immediately sent to the laboratory. In the laboratory, the sample is examined by andrologists, and various measurements are made. These measurements include semen count, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology.
Normal semen parameters are as follows:
- Volume: 1.5 ml or more
- Total sperm count: 15 million per ml or more
- Total Motility: 40% or more
- Sperm Morphology: 4% or more
