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Semen analysis

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

Analysis of seminal fluid should be the first step in the investigation of infertility since, in the absence of sperm, investigation of the female is futile.

Procedure:

  • 3 days abstinence from intercourse
  • collection of specimen of semen in a sterile plastic container after masturbation
  • examine within 2 hours

NICE state that normal results are:

  • Semen analysis
    • the results of semen analysis conducted as part of an initial assessment should be compared with the following World Health Organization reference values:
      • semen volume: 1.5 ml or more
      • pH: 7.2 or more
      • sperm concentration: 15 million spermatozoa per ml or more total
      • sperm number: 39 million spermatozoa per ejaculate or more
      • total motility (percentage of progressive motility and non-progressive motility): 40% or more motile or 32% or more with progressive motility
      • vitality: 58% or more
      • live spermatozoa sperm morphology (percentage of normal forms): 4% or more

Reference:

 

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