A semen analysis, or spermogram, is often the first test when a wish for children does not work out straight away. It sounds clinical, but it comes down to three simple questions: do you have enough sperm cells, do they move well, and are they normally shaped?
What many men do not know: one poorer result says little on its own. Sperm quality fluctuates, and that is why the picture over several measurements counts more than one isolated result.
What does a semen analysis look at?
A laboratory assesses your semen on a number of features. The three most important are the number of sperm cells, their motility and their shape. In addition, among other things the volume and acidity are looked at.
Each feature says something different. Many sperm cells that move badly gives a different picture than few sperm cells that do fine. That is why a doctor looks at the whole, not at one number. The broader story is in our pillar on male fertility.
What do the main values mean?
The table below lays out the core terms. The exact threshold values differ per laboratory and guideline, so always read the explanation with your own result.
| Value | What it measures | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration | Number of sperm cells per millilitre | Too few can lower the chance of fertilisation |
| Total count | Sperm cells in the whole sample | Together with the volume gives a more complete picture |
| Motility | How many sperm cells move well | Moving cells more easily reach the egg |
| Shape (morphology) | How many sperm cells are normally shaped | Can say something about the fertilisation chance |
A deviation on one feature does not automatically mean conceiving is impossible. Many men with a poorer result still have children, sometimes with some help.
Why is one result not enough?
Sperm quality can fluctuate considerably. Fever, a hard period, illness or even the interval since the last ejaculation can colour the result. That is why an abnormal analysis is usually repeated after a few weeks to months.
According to Thuisarts.nl, a single poorer result is not a final verdict, and a repeat is often done before conclusions are drawn. Because the making of sperm cells takes about three months, you only see the effect of changes back later too.
What do hormones add?
A semen analysis looks at the sperm cells themselves, but not at the control. For that, hormones are useful. Values such as FSH, LH and testosterone can help understand where any problem sits.
You will find these as individual markers, such as FSH and LH. What the semen analysis itself assesses is set out on that marker page. How hormones and sperm quality connect is in our piece on sperm quality and hormones.
When and how do you have it done?
If conceiving does not work after about a year, a semen analysis is often the first step in the man. An additional blood test for your hormones can make the picture more complete. What the man can otherwise have tested is in our piece on trying to conceive does not work.
The IVF Partner Screening focuses on the man in a conception journey. Always discuss your results with a doctor, because a single measurement is a snapshot and not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I abstain before a semen analysis?
Usually an abstinence period of a few days is advised, not too short and not too long. Too short or very long can affect the result. Follow the advice of the laboratory or your doctor, so the measurement can be assessed well.
Does an abnormal result mean I am infertile?
No. A poorer result sometimes lowers the chance, but rarely means infertility. Sperm quality fluctuates, so a repeat is part of it. Many men with an abnormal analysis still have children, sometimes with medical help.
Can I do a sperm test at home?
There are self-tests that give a rough indication of your sperm count at home. They can be a first signal, but they do not look at movement and shape, and are less reliable than a laboratory analysis. With a wish for children that does not work, testing via your doctor is the surest route. A reassuring home test therefore does not rule out a problem with movement or shape.
Sources
- Thuisarts.nl. Testing in the man with fertility problems.
- NHG (Dutch College of General Practitioners). NHG guideline Subfertility.
- RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment). Lifestyle and fertility.
Disclaimer
Caliberhealth works with BIG-registered doctors who review your blood results. This article provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice from a GP or specialist. A blood test is a tool, not a diagnosis in itself. For serious or persistent symptoms, contact your GP, or call 112 in an emergency.
الكاتب
