Sperm Motility Concentration (Quantitative)
This test measures the concentration of motile sperm cells in a semen sample, which is important for fertility assessment.
["Assessing sperm motility helps determine fertility potential in men."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40696-7
- Short code
- Sperm Motile p conc # Smn
- Synonyms
- Sperm Motile p conc # 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 order this test if you or your partner are experiencing difficulty conceiving. It helps evaluate the quality and quantity of sperm that can potentially fertilize an egg. This is often part of a broader evaluation for male infertility or as part of a pre-sperm donation screening process.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to provide a semen sample in a sterile container, often done at a clinic or lab. Avoid ejaculation for 2–5 days before the test to ensure a representative sample.
What Happens During the Test
The semen sample is analyzed under a microscope to count and assess the percentage of sperm that are moving (motile). This test specifically measures the concentration of motile sperm cells, not just motility alone.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as the number of motile sperm per milliliter of semen. Lower-than-expected concentrations may indicate issues with sperm production, function, or motility, which could affect fertility. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
What does a low sperm motility concentration mean?
How does this test differ from a standard semen analysis?
Can lifestyle changes improve sperm motility concentration?
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