Skip to content

Sperm Mass Fraction (Total Sperm Count)

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

This test measures the total number of sperm cells in a semen sample, which is important for fertility assessment and evaluation of male infertility.

Quick summary

["Understanding your sperm count helps determine if fertility issues may be related to sperm quantity."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43285-6
Short code
Sperm IgM NFr Ser
Synonyms
Sperm IgM NFr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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

Why It’s Done

A sperm count test is often part of a fertility evaluation for couples struggling to conceive. It may also be performed during pre-surgical assessments for conditions like prostate cancer or during follow-up care for certain treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to provide a semen sample, typically collected through masturbation into a sterile container. Avoid ejaculation for 2–5 days before testing to ensure an accurate count. Do not use lubricants that may interfere with results.

How the Test Works

The sample is analyzed under a microscope to count the total number of sperm cells. This method provides a quantitative measure of sperm concentration, which can be compared to general reference ranges for fertility assessment.

What the Results Mean

Results are often reported as sperm concentration (sperm per milliliter) or total sperm count (sperm per ejaculate). Lower-than-expected counts may indicate infertility, but other factors like motility or morphology should also be evaluated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Sperm Count Test

Frequently asked questions

A low sperm count can be a sign of infertility, but it may also be influenced by lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, alcohol), medical conditions (e.g., varicocele, hormonal imbalances), or exposure to toxins. It is not a standalone diagnosis but part of a broader evaluation.
This test helps doctors determine if sperm quantity is a contributing factor to infertility and guides next steps, such as further testing (e.g., motility, genetic screening) or treatment options (e.g., assisted reproductive technologies).
What does a low sperm count mean?
A low sperm count means fewer sperm cells than expected in a semen sample. This can affect fertility but does not always mean you cannot conceive. Other factors like sperm movement (motility) or shape (morphology) are also important.
Can lifestyle changes improve sperm count?
Yes, certain lifestyle changes—such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding exposure to toxins—may support sperm health. However, if the issue is medical (e.g., hormonal or genetic), treatment may be needed.
  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