How do I interpret basic semen analysis results?
Male infertility is responsible for approximately 20% of the infertile couples seeking fertility treatment. It also contributes to the other causes of infertility in another 30% of couples.
The initial test requested is a basic semen analysis. Before producing a sperm sample, the man should abstain for two to five days before the test. You can produce the sample at a London IVF clinic or Andrology laboratory.
If producing a sample at home, you should use a specimen bottle provided. Any other container may have some materials or chemicals that are toxic to sperm. This will negatively affect your test result. While producing a sperm sample at home, the sample should be presented to the lab within an hour.
Almost 10-20% of the semen analysis results are outside the normal range. It is not uncommon to have results outside the normal range. Therefore, your fertility specialist may ask you to repeat the test in 8-12 weeks. The report will comment on the following common sperm parameters:
To understand the pitfalls of basic semen analysis, check out our upcoming blog post: ‘Limitations of Basic Semen Analysis’.