Spermatozoa Morphology and Motility Screening (Semen Analysis)
This test evaluates the quality of your semen, including the count, shape, and movement of sperm cells, which may help assess fertility or diagnose potential reproductive issues.
["A semen analysis checks for sperm health and function to support fertility decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10589-0
- Short code
- Spermatids # Smn SAB
- Synonyms
- Spermatids # Smn SAB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- sab
- 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 Test Measures
Your semen sample is examined for several key factors: sperm concentration (number of sperm per milliliter), sperm motility (movement ability), and sperm morphology (shape and structure). These factors are critical for determining fertility potential and identifying possible underlying conditions.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll provide a fresh semen sample in a sterile container, typically collected through masturbation. The sample is then analyzed under a microscope to assess sperm count, movement, and shape. No fasting or special preparation is required.
Why It’s Done
A semen analysis is commonly ordered for men undergoing fertility evaluation, those experiencing unexplained infertility, or those with symptoms like low libido, erectile dysfunction, or recurrent pregnancy loss. It may also be used as part of a broader reproductive health assessment.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves a simple collection process followed by a detailed microscopic examination. Results are usually reported as a percentage or count (e.g., motility percentage, normal morphology percentage), though exact reference ranges vary by lab.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Semen Analysis
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a low sperm count or poor motility mean?
Can lifestyle changes improve semen quality?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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