Semen analysis
A semen analysis measures the quantity and quality of both the liquid portion, called semen, and the microscopic moving cells called sperm. Semen is the turbid, whitish substance that is released from the penis during ejaculation. Sperm are the cells in semen with a head and a tail that enables them to travel to the egg. A typical semen analysis could measure:
- the volume of semen
- the macroscopic appearance
- the semen viscosity (thickness)
- sperm concentration,
- total number of sperm
- sperm motility (the percentage that are able to move, as well as how vigorously and straight the sperm move)
- the number of normal and abnormal (defective) sperm
- coagulation and liquefaction (the time it takes the semen to go from a gel to a liquid state)
- fructose level (a sugar in semen)
- pH (acidity)
- the number of immature sperm, and
- the number of white blood cells (cells that indicate infection).
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Biomarkers included in this panel:
In a semen analysis, "active sperm" typically refers to sperm motility. Active sperm are those that are capable of moving, and sperm motility is an important parameter in assessing male fertility.
Learn moreSemen is typically whitish-gray with a jelly-like texture, but it can fluctuate with different lifestyle changes. Unless you’re experiencing other symptoms, temporary changes in the color of your semen usually aren’t a cause for concern.
Learn moreThe term motility refers to the movement of a man’s sperm. The analysis assesses whether or not the sperm are swimming properly and in a straight line. Sperm receive a letter grade from A to D, with an A given to the fastest, straightest swimme
Learn moreThe deformity rate in a semen analysis refers to the percentage of sperm with abnormal morphology or shape within a semen sample. The deformity rate is an essential factor in assessing male fertility because sperm with abnormal morphology may have di
Learn moreIn a semen analysis, density typically refers to sperm concentration, which is a crucial parameter used to assess male fertility. Sperm density signifies the number of sperm present per milliliter (ml) of semen. It quantifies the concentration of spe
Learn moreThe Liquefaction status in a semen analysis is an important aspect of semen analysis that assesses how semen changes from a coagulated to a more liquid state, with deviations from the norm potentially indicating fertility issues.
Learn moreLiquefaction time in a semen analysis is a crucial parameter that indicates the time it takes for semen to transition from a gel-like consistency to a liquid state. It is essential for sperm mobility and is used as a diagnostic indicator to assess sp
Learn moreThe acronym MAR stands for mixed antiglobulin reaction. The test is used to diagnose imunological infertility, which means that antisperm antibodies are present that prevent conception from taking place. Antibodies in blood, semen or cervical mucous
Learn moreThe acronym MAR stands for mixed antiglobulin reaction. The test is used to diagnose imunological infertility, which means that antisperm antibodies are present that prevent conception from taking place. Antibodies in blood, semen or cervical mucous
Learn moreMotility in a semen analysis is a critical parameter that signifies the ability of sperm to move, which is essential for fertilization. It provides valuable information about sperm health, fertility potential, and the quality of sperm in a semen samp
Learn moreThe percentage of A+B motility in semen analysis is a crucial indicator of sperm's ability to effectively move and play a role in natural conception. Higher percentages are generally associated with better fertility outcomes.
Learn moreNormal semen pH is in the range of 7.2 to 8 and it tends to increase with time after ejaculation. Changes are usually due to inflammation of the prostate or seminal vesicles.
Learn morepercent able to move as well as how vigorously and straight the sperm move
Learn moreThe "total number" in a semen analysis typically refers to the total sperm count, which is a crucial parameter in assessing male fertility. The total sperm count represents the total number of sperm present in one ejaculate of semen. Nor
Learn moreQuantitative Assessment: VCL is a quantitative parameter used to assess sperm motility. It is one of the factors evaluated during a semen analysis to determine the quality and functionality of sperm.
Learn moreVelocity of Straight Line (VSL) is an important parameter measured in semen analysis to assess sperm motility. VSL refers to the time-average velocity of a sperm head as it moves along a straight line between its first and last detected positions. It
Learn moreViscosity measures the seminal fluid's resistance to flow. High viscosity may interfere with determination of sperm motility, concentration, and antibody coating of spermatozoa. Normally, semen coagulates upon ejaculation and usually liquefies wi
Learn moreSemen volume refers to the amount of seminal fluid ejaculated during a male's orgasm. On average, the volume of semen in a single ejaculation typically ranges between 2 to 5 milliliters, equivalent to approximately 0.12 to 0.31 cubic inches in vo
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