Planning to start a family? If you have been trying to conceive for a few months and have not yet tested positive, it is important to understand male fertility. Male fertility causes about 40-50% of infertility, which is a big concern. Today, it can be solved with a semen analysis test. A semen analysis examines the health of sperm, and it is used to determine potential fertility concerns.

This guide discusses comprehensive male fertility testing and how it helps.

What is Semen Analysis and Why is it Considered?

A semen analysis is a simple laboratory male fertility test that analyses the health and quality of male sperm. This test evaluates various aspects of your semen sample to assess reproductive function.

A semen analysis looks at:

  • Sperm count: how many sperm cells your body produces
  • Movement patterns: whether sperm swim forward properly
  • Shape and structure: if the sperm looks normal under magnification, abnormalities here may point to unhealthy sperm.
  • Sample volume: the total amount of semen produced

Male fertility testing has become the standard first step when couples search for answers about male fertility issues. When should you consider this male fertility testing? Here are some examples. If you have been trying to conceive for over a year, your partner has faced multiple miscarriages. If you have a family history of fertility problems or you have had previous injuries or infections affecting reproductive organs, you must get advanced fertility testing.

How Do You Prepare for Semen Analysis?

Proper preparation is essential for accurate semen examination results.

Abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days before your test. This ensures your sample contains sufficient sperm for accurate measurement. Avoid certain substances that can affect results:

  • Alcohol for at least 48 hours before testing
  • Hot baths, saunas, or tight clothing that increases scrotal temperature
  • Strenuous exercise or illness on the test day

Maintaining good hydration and your normal diet is also important. Your doctor will provide specific instructions, including these general guidelines.

How Does the Semen Analysis Test Work?

The collection process is simple and private. You will be provided with a private room to collect your sample comfortably. Some clinics also offer home collection services with a sterile container and clear instructions.

After collection, laboratory specialists examine the sample within an hour for accuracy. They use advanced microscopes and computer-assisted analysis systems. Specialists count sperm, track their movement patterns, and assess their shape and structure. They also identify semen volume and pH levels and check for any unusual cells or substances. This is how a semen analysis test works.

What Do the Semen Analysis Results Show?

Your private semen analysis results include several key measurements that work together to assess fertility potential. These parameters help your doctor determine the most appropriate plans for the next steps.

The first thing doctors check is sperm count. Normal results show at least 15 million sperm per millilitre. Movement is equally important, with at least 32% of sperm ideally showing progressive movement.  If your numbers fall below this, it could be one of the earliest signs of low sperm count to investigate.

Sperm morphology is also assessed, where normal sperm have oval heads and long tails. According to WHO standards, at least 4% of sperm should have normal morphology. Additionally, sperm volume, pH levels, and liquefaction time are also measured.

It is important to note that a single abnormal parameter does not necessarily indicate infertility. Doctors check all factors together for your complete fertility profile.

Conclusion

Every abnormality can be cured today, and so can fertility issues. Understanding your fertility status begins with proper testing and professional guidance. A semen analysis will help diagnose possible problems and prescribe the right treatment. Family planning, therefore, requires informed decision-making.

For expert guidance and professional testing, The Male Fertility Clinic, the established centre, is here to support you.