Sperm Motility Assessment, Semen
This test evaluates the movement (motility) of sperm in a semen sample, which is one of the key factors in assessing male fertility.
["Sperm motility testing measures how well sperm move, an important indicator of fertility potential."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39607-7
- Short code
- Sperm Motile #/area Smn HPF
- Synonyms
- Sperm Motile #/area Smn HPF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light-hpf
- 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
The test examines a semen sample to determine the proportion of sperm that are moving and how actively they move. Motility is typically graded by the quality and type of movement observed under a microscope.
Why It Is Ordered
Sperm motility testing is commonly ordered as part of a semen analysis when a couple is having difficulty conceiving, or to evaluate male fertility after certain medical conditions, treatments, or exposures.
How the Sample Is Collected
A semen sample is collected, usually by masturbation, after a period of abstinence recommended by your healthcare provider. The sample is then delivered to the laboratory promptly for analysis.
What the Results Can Mean
Results describe the percentage and quality of motile sperm. Reduced motility may be associated with fertility challenges, but results must be interpreted by your provider alongside other semen parameters and your overall health history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Sperm motility is a central component of semen analysis and male fertility evaluation. Reduced motility, sometimes called asthenozoospermia, can be associated with varicocele, infections, hormone imbalances, lifestyle factors, or unexplained causes. Results are interpreted together with sperm count, morphology, and clinical context; this test alone does not diagnose infertility.
Short name
Sperm Motility
Frequently asked questions
Does poor sperm motility mean I cannot father a child?
How should I prepare for 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