Sperm Motility Assessment (30% Motile Sperm Count)
This test measures the percentage of sperm cells that are moving actively, which is important for fertility. It helps assess sperm quality and potential fertility issues.
["Active sperm movement is key for successful conception—this test checks if your sperm is moving well enough to support pregnancy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17610-7
- Short code
- Sperm Motile 30M p coll Smn Ql
- Synonyms
- Sperm Motile 30M p coll Smn Ql
- 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
What This Test Measures
A semen sample is examined under a microscope to count and evaluate how many sperm are moving (motile) and how well they move. This test specifically looks at sperm motility, focusing on those that make up 30% or more of the total sperm count. Motility is a critical factor in sperm function, as it helps sperm swim toward the egg.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you or your partner have trouble getting pregnant, unexplained infertility, or recurrent pregnancy loss. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for male infertility or before certain fertility treatments.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll provide a semen sample, usually collected through masturbation into a sterile container. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to count and assess sperm movement. The test focuses on the percentage of sperm that are actively motile, which is distinct from total sperm count alone.
Interpreting Results
Results are reported as a percentage of motile sperm (e.g., 30% motile). While there are general guidelines (often 40%+ considered normal), individual results depend on medical history and clinical context. Your provider will discuss what your specific result means for your fertility journey.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low sperm motility can indicate underlying issues like poor sperm production, genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, or exposure to toxins. It may also be linked to conditions like varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum) or infections. Addressing motility concerns often involves lifestyle changes, medical treatments, or fertility interventions like IVF.
Short name
Sperm Motility Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a low motility score mean?
Can diet or lifestyle changes help 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