Bacteriasmncult
This test detects and identifies bacteria in semen to diagnose infections that may affect male fertility and reproductive health.
{"Detects bacterial growth in semen sample","Helps diagnose infections affecting fertility","Guides antibiotic treatment if needed","Part of routine male infertility evaluation","Results typically available in 2-5 days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106018-5
- Short code
- SEMBC
- Synonyms
- Bacteria # Smn Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, wide-mouth, leak-proof, screw-cap plastic container; culture-specific transport media if required for fastidious organisms (e.g., Amies or Stuart transport medium). Do not use containers with preservatives.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- male
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87070 (Culture, bacterial; any other source except urine, blood or stool, with isolation and presumptive identification of isolates) and 87077 (additional identification of each isolate) and 87186 (antibiotic susceptibility testing, when applicable). CPT 87147 may apply for serotyping.
- SNOMED
- 104176003 (Bacterial culture of semen)
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 0.5-1 mL of ejaculated semen; the entire ejaculate is preferred for optimal culture yield.
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 2 hours of collection when held at room temperature; if delay is anticipated, refrigerate at 2-8°C and process within 24 hours. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–96 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A semen bacterial culture is a laboratory test that detects and identifies bacteria in a semen sample. The test involves placing the semen sample on special growth media to see if bacteria grow. If bacteria grow, further testing identifies the specific type of bacteria and determines which antibiotics can effectively treat the infection.
Why is this test performed?
This test is primarily performed to evaluate male reproductive health, especially when a man is experiencing fertility problems. It helps detect infections in the reproductive tract, including the prostate, urethra, or seminal vesicles, that may be contributing to infertility or causing symptoms such as pain or discomfort.
How is the test done?
A semen sample is collected, usually through masturbation, into a sterile container. It is important to avoid using lubricants, condoms, or soaps that might contaminate the sample. The sample should be delivered to the laboratory within a short timeframe (typically within an hour) and kept at body temperature during transport.
What do the results mean?
A negative result means no bacteria were detected, which is considered normal. A positive result indicates bacterial growth, which may suggest an infection. The specific bacteria identified will determine the appropriate treatment. Common pathogens include E. coli, Enterococcus, and sexually transmitted organisms.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria; normal genital flora (e.g., commensal Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Corynebacterium, Lactobacillus species) may be present. Pathogenic organisms: typically reported as organism name with quantitative colony count per mL (e.g., CFU/mL). Clinical significance determined by organism identity, quantity, and clinical correlation.N/A
Patient should abstain from ejaculation for 2-7 days prior to specimen collection. Urinate prior to specimen collection. Patient must wash hands and glans penis thoroughly with soap and water, then rinse and dry before sample collection. Specimen should be collected by masturbation into a sterile, wide-mouthed, leak-proof container. Do not use lubricants or condoms as they may be bactericidal. If collecting at home, specimen should be delivered to the laboratory within 1 hour of collection, keeping the sample at body or room temperature.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Does this test hurt?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
What happens if bacteria are found?
Can an infection affect my fertility?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy