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: Semen Analysis, Fertility Panel

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

: A semen analysis is a group of laboratory measurements performed on a semen sample to help assess male fertility.

Quick summary

[": A semen analysis checks the amount, movement, and shape of sperm and other features of semen to help evaluate fertility."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54231-6
Short code
Semen analysis fertility Pnl
Synonyms
Semen analysis fertility Pnl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86038
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

: What This Panel Measures

: A fertility semen panel typically includes assessments of semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, sperm motility (movement), and sperm morphology (shape), along with other features such as pH and appearance. Together these measurements give a broad picture of sperm production and function.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: The sample is usually collected by masturbation into a clean container provided by the laboratory, often after a recommended period of abstinence. Follow your laboratory's specific instructions, since collection timing and completeness can affect the results.

: What the Results Can Tell You

: Results are compared with established reference limits to see whether any measurements fall outside typical ranges. Findings can suggest normal sperm production, reduced sperm numbers, problems with sperm movement or shape, or issues with semen volume, which may guide further evaluation.

: Limits of the Test

: A single semen analysis does not by itself diagnose infertility, and results can vary between samples and over time. Because many factors affect the test, a normal or abnormal result is interpreted alongside your history and other evaluations.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

: Semen Analysis

Frequently asked questions

: Does an abnormal semen analysis mean I cannot father a child?
: Not necessarily. Abnormal results indicate areas that may need further evaluation and do not by themselves confirm or rule out infertility. Many factors influence fertility, and your clinician will interpret results with your history and may recommend repeat testing.
: How long before the test should I abstain from ejaculation?
: Your laboratory will give a recommended abstinence period, which is commonly a few days. Following that instruction helps ensure the most reliable sample for testing.
: Can I collect the sample at home?
: Some laboratories allow at-home collection if the sample can be delivered within a specified time, while others require collection at the facility. Follow the instructions provided by your laboratory to keep the sample suitable for analysis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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