Sperm Motility Analysis After 12 Hours (Ejaculate)
This test evaluates the movement ability of sperm cells in your semen after they have been stored for 12 hours. It helps assess fertility and potential issues with sperm function.
["Measuring sperm motility after storage can help identify fertility problems or sperm quality concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27327-6
- Short code
- Sperm Motile 12h p ejac NFr Smn
- Synonyms
- Sperm Motile 12h p ejac NFr Smn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you or your partner are experiencing difficulty conceiving. It helps determine whether sperm motility is a contributing factor to infertility. This test is often part of a broader evaluation for male infertility.
What to Expect Before the Test
You will provide a semen sample, typically through masturbation into a sterile container. Avoid ejaculation for at least 2–3 days before the test to ensure a representative sample. Do not use lubricants that may alter results.
How the Test Is Performed
The semen sample is analyzed under a microscope to evaluate the percentage and speed of sperm cells that are moving actively. After 12 hours of storage, the motility is reassessed to observe changes in sperm movement patterns.
What the Results Mean
Results are qualitative and focus on the proportion of sperm that are motile (moving) versus non-motile. Lower motility after 12 hours may indicate issues with sperm viability, storage conditions, or underlying fertility problems.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing male infertility caused by poor sperm motility. Reduced motility after storage can suggest problems with sperm health, such as oxidative stress, genetic factors, or hormonal imbalances. It may guide further testing or treatment options, such as assisted reproductive technologies.
Short name
12-Hour Sperm Motility Test
Frequently asked questions
What causes sperm motility to change after 12 hours?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can lifestyle changes improve sperm motility?
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