Semen Analysis

Because semen quality can affect sperm function and movement, a semen analysis is performed to examine the entire ejaculate.

Generally, three semen samples are taken at different times to account for variables such as temperature and error.

The semen fluid test examines possible impediments to sperm performance. Sperm may swim more slowly through cervical mucus if they’re contained in abnormally thick semen, which can inhibit fertilization. Abnormal sperm shape can also indicate poor sperm health.

Other semen tests focus on sperm's ability to swim through cervical mucus and enter an egg.

6 sperm factors are analyzed in semen analysis:

1. Concentration (sperm/milliliter; cc)
2. Volume (total volume of ejaculate)
3. Total motile count (total number of moving sperm)
4. Morphology (sperm shape; normal structure associated with sperm health)
5. Motility (or mobility; % sperm movement)
6. Standard semen fluid test (thickness, color)

To identify diseases that affect fertility, such as kidney disease, diabetes, and repeated urinary tract infection (UTI), post-ejaculation urinalysis may also be performed.

Blood tests may also identify disorders that impair testosterone and sperm production.

Azoospermia is the absence of sperm in the semen. Men with normal reproductive tracts and hormone systems can have azoospermia due to a lack of sperm-producing tissue in the testes or an obstruction.