A semen analysis is usually the first test in a male fertility assessment. The report can look intimidating, but most of it comes down to a handful of measurements, each compared with reference values published by the World Health Organization.
What is measured
The laboratory looks at the volume of the sample, how many sperm it contains, how well they move and what proportion have a typical shape. No single number tells the whole story, and results often vary from one sample to the next.
Measurement
WHO lower reference limit (2021)
Semen volume
1.4 ml
Sperm concentration
16 million per ml
Total sperm number
39 million per ejaculate
Total motility
42%
Progressive motility
30%
Normal forms
4%
What if a result is low?
A single low result is common and does not mean you cannot father a child. Mr Pang will usually repeat the test after about three months, check hormone levels and examine for treatable causes such as a varicocele.
Illness, fever and some medicines can lower results for up to three months. Mention any recent illness when you book.
Key points
Results are compared with WHO reference values, not a pass mark
One abnormal result should usually be repeated
Many causes of low sperm quality are treatable