Fertility Semen Analysis

A semen analysis is usually advised if a couple are having difficulty conceiving (becoming pregnant). Primary infertility is a common problem, affecting more than one in seven couples attempting their first pregnancy. Among those experiencing difficulty with conception, a male fertility problem is considered a factor in around 40 per cent of couples.

The sample will be analysed according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for volume, pH, concentration, motility, viability and morphology. Results are sent to the referring doctor within 5 working days of the semen analysis.

Factors that may affect semen analysis results

  • Some plastics are toxic to sperm so specimen containers must be obtained from Andrology as these have been tested for toxicity.
  • Extremes of temperature can damage sperm so the sample should be kept at body temperature whilst being transported to the laboratory, for example by carrying it in an inside pocket.
  • A condom and/or artificial lubrication must not be used for semen collection, as it will kill the sperm.
  • Motility of sperm can decline over time so it is important that the semen sample is examined within an hour of it being produced.
  • The sperm ‘rich’ fragment of an ejaculate is considered as the first part produced, so the whole of the specimen should be collected to support adequate interpretation.  We will not reject your sample if this is not the case, but it does help us understand how to interpret the results.
  • The number of days of sexual abstinence can affect the quality of sperm.
  • Abstinence should be between 2 – 7 days (3 or 4 days is best) for semen analysis.
  • Viscous specimens or specimens where there is sperm agglutination can affect semen analysis results.
  • Past medical history may be important in understanding where there may be reduced sperm quality, such as cancer treatment or previous infections.
  • The use of medications prescribed by a healthcare professional (we do not advise stopping medications, just ensure that if you talk to the person who referred you when you discuss results or ask to speak an Andrologist)
  • The use of ‘recreational drugs’ which can be anabolic steroids, exogenous testosterone, cannabis etc.  Please talk to the person who referred you or ask to speak to an Andrologist regarding this.

There may be occasions where we refer you back to the person who referred you, this is only due to them having a comprehensive medical history.