The Complete Guide to Semen Analysis
Causes, Tests & Solutions
A semen analysis is often suggested as the first test during a fertility assessment along with blood- and hormone tests. It requires the production of a semen sample into a batch-tested container after which the sample is incubated and analysed microscopically. A semen analysis provides essential information on the quantity, quality and look of sperm and their environment, and is therefore an adequate initial test. With different clinics offering these analyses, there are various complexities to this test which can decide the diagnosis and treatment to be had.
What is a semen analysis?
A semen analysis is a comprehensive test analysing the male ejaculate. It is considered gold standard for an initial fertility assessment when performed in a UKAS accredited laboratory. A semen analysis is performed using a microscope. This test evaluates several parameters including macroscopic features of the seminal plasma (i.e. sample appearance, pH, viscosity), as well as microscopic characteristics, i.e. motility, concentration, morphology. This test offers direct indicators for fertility potential but can also provide essential information on other factors prolonging the fertility journey, such as infections or structural abnormalities.
When should you have a semen analysis?
It is recommended to have a semen analysis performed after 6-12 months of trying to conceive. However, anyone can have a semen analysis at any time to assess the overall quality of sperm.
This test is usually recommended to obtain an initial insight into the male’s fertility or to evaluate the efficacy of current treatment plans. The formation of sperm, or spermatogenesis, takes approximately 12 weeks, meaning that results can vary over time. However, this also means that sperm quality can improve within a short period of time. Repeat analysis trending sperm quality and making little lifestyle adjustments may therefore support natural conception.
The WHO defines infertility as being unable to naturally conceive within 12 months of unprotected, regular intercourse. This time frame is shortened for couples with an increased maternal age (>35), in this case, couples may present at specialist facilities sooner, after 6 months of actively trying to conceive.
Usual diagnostic workups begin with discussing the health history of the patient and his family. In this instance, should the father of the patient have already had issues conceiving, this may be indicative of inheritable or congenital issues. A semen analysis may also be proposed at this point of the journey as part of the fertility assessment. Lifestyle concerns are also a reason for having an analysis done, usually when individuals wish to understand whether the current lifestyle is affecting their fertility.
What does a semen analysis test involve?
For the test one has to ejaculate into a clinic-specific, batch-tested container. This is usually done in a provided, often sound-proofed room onsite, can however sometimes be offered from home. Following sample production, the sample is analysed for 20 different parameters to obtain a thorough insight.
Firstly, the sample is incubated to ensure the seminal fluids are properly mixed and parameters are even within the sample. This is followed by the evaluation of macroscopic parameters, including the appearance, pH, viscosity, liquefaction (i.e. enzyme function), volume and cell-content within the sample. The microscopic analysis involves a manual assessment of motility, concentration, anti-sperm antibody testing and morphology. Following the semen analysis other tests can be performed before the sample is safely discarded.
Results are sent to your email address using a secure platform that requires an access code to ensure utmost confidentiality. The semen analysis turnaround time is one working day which sets us apart from other private laboratories that take up to three days for results.
How to prepare for a semen analysis
For this test an abstinence period of 2-7 days should be adhered to, but best, most accurate results are achieved with an abstinence period of 2-3 days.
Semen analysis cost in the UK
The NHS offers a basic semen analysis, usually analysing only the three main parameters: concentration, motility and morphology. In addition, patients may experience long wait times to secure an appointment which may affect further treatment.
Private clinics usually offer same-week and/or Saturday appointments. A comprehensive semen analysis assesses parameters beyond the basic analysis, including cell-content, viability of sperm, pH and many more indicators for other underlying issues.
Semen Analyses range from £159-250 in the UK. A comprehensive semen analysis is priced at £189 at Fertility Solutions. Scheduling an appointment for a semen analysis in the NHS may prove lengthy with several weeks to months wait time. Test results may take days or weeks to be shared also.
At Fertility Solutions it is possible to get same-day appointments and next-day results.
Why choose Fertility Solutions?
Fertility Solutions is an innovative private diagnostic testing laboratory, closely working with leading male and female specialists in the field. This enables Fertility solutions to undertake novel research and go beyond the standard care provided in other clinics.
All laboratory-trained staff carrying out semen analyses are specially trained and have a Bachelor and Master of Science degree.
Referrals and consultations are performed by specialist clinicians with years of experience in the field. Consultations enabling patients to make informed decisions in their fertility journey and providing worthwhile choices/options.
Fast turnaround of appointments and results.
Leading research in the Andrology field.
What do semen analysis results mean?
A semen analysis assesses at least the three main parameters: sperm concentration, motility and morphology. Should these yield abnormal results, they would be highlighted in red on most semen analysis reports. Abnormal parameters usually indicate that the measured value is below the reference range specified by the World Health Organization and/or testing laboratory. These reference ranges were estimated by the WHO based on a healthy, reference population, meaning from men who were able to father a child within the specified 12 months of trying to conceive.
Should a parameter present as abnormal, this can often be improved by lifestyle changes, hormone supplementation or minimally invasive surgery should the reason be of anatomical cause. As men produce sperm continuously throughout their lives, with spermatogenesis (the formation of sperm) taking approximately 12 weeks, semen parameters can improve (or decline) within this time frame. This means that if, for instance, a semen analysis yielded a poor count and motility, and the patient has had a high fever (>38°C), three months later results may be significantly improved. Therefore, should a semen analysis specify abnormal parameters, it may be worthwhile repeating this test a few months later, perhaps including some lifestyle changes also, to distinguish between temporary and prolonging abnormal results.
Frequently asked questions about semen analysis
How long does a semen analysis take?
In the laboratory it takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete a semen analysis.
Can lifestyle affect results?
Lifestyle can affect sample parameters, in particular concentration and motility. Healthy lifestyle choices including a healthy diet, regular, moderate exercise, little stress and reduced alcohol intake can all improve semen parameters. On the other hand, smoking, excess alcohol, little to no exercise and an unhealthy diet may negatively affect sperm quality.
Is semen analysis painful?
No, a semen analysis is not usually painful.
Can I do semen analysis at home?
A home collection can be arranged for a semen analysis. Fertility Solutions offers to send a home sample kit via post and perform a semen analysis following the delivery of the sample to the laboratory within 45 minutes.
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We understand that embarking on any treatment journey is daunting and fertility treatment is no different. The team at Fertility Solutions is here to guide you every step of the way. Our aim is to take the mystery away, help you make sense of the medical information and provide, simple, clear facts about what is possible for you.