Sperm test or semen analysis interpretation

Last updated: May 18, 2026

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Male infertility is another common issue in my andrology office, and the sperm test or semen analysis is the key to open this padlock for the solution. What is male infertility? Male infertility was suspects when the reproductive-aged of a couple couldn’t conceive after 1 year of unprotected sexual intercourse. It’s been showed; for up to 15% of a couple who experienced in infertility, and male is the common trigger for about 50% of cases.

• Urology center Bangkok hospital Thailand Booking online 02-310-3009 bhquro@bdms.co.th
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Good semen specimen should be as following

• Collect during 3 – 7 days of the abstinence.
• All specimens must be contained in the container which specific nontoxic to spermatozoa, any losing of sample shall report to the laboratory.
• Sperm container must be kept in room temperature between 20 – 37 degrees Celsius.
• Sample can be produced by masturbation or collect in nontoxic condom; Latex condom is not allowed.
• Semen should be delivered to laboratory within 1 hour after collection.

World Health Organization has provided a normal reference of sperm test or semen analysis as following

1. Volume > 1.5 mL
   • Low semen volume considered as abnormal – For example
   • Retrograde ejaculation, incomplete semen collection, ejaculatory duct problem
2. pH > 7.2
3. Sperm concentration > 15 million per mL
   • Less than 10 million sperm per mL considered as abnormal – For example
   • Endocrine-related issues – Abnormal with Testosterone, FSH, LH or prolactin
4. Total sperm number > 39 million sperm per ejaculation
5. Morphology > 4% normal form
   • Abnormal value suggests spermatogenesis problem
6. Vitality > 58% live sperm
   • Abnormal value suggests epididymal-related problem
7. Progressive motility > 32%
8. Total (progressive motility and non-progressive motility) > 40%
9. No sperm agglutination
10. Viscosity < 2 cm after liquefaction
11. Inflammation cell < 1 million WBC per mL
    • Abnormal value suggests genital tract infection

If the sperm test or semen analysis results in normal range that mean only 1 semen test might be enough, and up to 2 – 3 repeated tests will give us more accurate results. Moreover, if we can find the cause of an abnormal sperm test or semen analysis then we can fix it, semen analysis must be repeated later 3 months due to completion of another spermatogenesis cycle.

I hope you can figure it out the answer with my sperm test or semen analysis topic. For further questions, please talk to your trusted andrologist or you can text me if you want to.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sperm Test and Semen Analysis

What is a semen analysis and what does it measure?

A semen analysis (sperm test) is the primary investigation for male infertility. It measures multiple parameters including semen volume (normal >1.5 mL), pH (>7.2), sperm concentration (>15 million/mL), total sperm count (>39 million/ejaculation), morphology (>4% normal forms), vitality (>58% live sperm), progressive motility (>32%), total motility (>40%), presence of white blood cells (<1 million/mL), viscosity, and agglutination. Each parameter points to different potential causes of infertility.

How should I prepare a semen sample for the most accurate results?

For an accurate semen analysis, abstain from ejaculation for 3 to 7 days before collection. Collect the sample by masturbation or using a non-toxic, non-latex condom. Store the sample in a sperm-safe container at room temperature (20–37°C) and deliver it to the laboratory within 1 hour. Any sample loss should be reported to the lab, as it may affect the volume result.

How many semen tests are needed to confirm a diagnosis?

A single normal result may be sufficient, but 2 to 3 repeat tests provide greater accuracy. If an abnormality is found and treated, the semen analysis should be repeated after 3 months to allow a full spermatogenesis cycle to complete before reassessing the result.

If you are concerned about male fertility or have received an abnormal semen analysis result, Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone offers specialist consultations at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. Book a Consultation.

Disclaimer: This content is written and reviewed by Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone, a board-certified urologist at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medical treatment.