Normal results

• Semen analysis
  • 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: 1.4 ml or more (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3 to 1.5)
      • pH: 7.2 or more
      • sperm concentration: 16 million spermatozoa per ml or more (95% CI 15 to 18)
      • total sperm number: 39 million spermatozoa per ejaculate or more (95% CI 35 to 40)
      • total motility (percentage of progressive motility and non-progressive motility): 42% or more motile (95% CI 40 to 43)
      • progressive motility: 30% or more (95% CI 29 to 31)
      • vitality: 54% or more live spermatozoa (95% CI 50 to 56)
      • sperm morphology (percentage of normal forms): 4% or more (95% CI 3.9 to 4.0)
  • note that the reference ranges are only valid for the semen analysis tests outlined by the World Health Organization - see the WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen

Reference:

• NICE (March 2026).Fertility - Assessment and treatment for people with fertility problems