Sperm Morphology Analysis (Teratozoospermia Index)
This test evaluates the proportion of abnormally shaped sperm cells in your semen, which can help assess fertility and identify potential causes of infertility.
["Assessing sperm shape is key to understanding fertility health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 68910-9
- Short code
- Teratozoospermia index Smn-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Teratozoospermia index Smn-aCnc
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you or a partner are struggling with infertility, unexplained fertility issues, or recurrent pregnancy loss. It’s also used in cases where other fertility tests (like semen analysis) show concerns about sperm quality.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to provide a semen sample, typically collected through masturbation into a sterile container after 2–5 days of abstinence. Avoid ejaculation for this period to ensure accurate results. No special preparation is needed beyond this.
How the Test Works
A trained technician examines a drop of semen under a microscope, counting and classifying sperm based on shape (normal vs. abnormal). The teratozoospermia index quantifies the percentage of abnormal sperm cells, which is compared to standard reference ranges.
What the Results Mean
A low teratozoospermia index (fewer than ~14% abnormal sperm) often correlates with better fertility potential. High percentages may indicate underlying issues like chromosomal abnormalities, genetic disorders, or exposure to toxins.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High teratozoospermia index can signal infertility causes like genetic defects, hormonal imbalances, or exposure to environmental toxins. It’s often used alongside other tests (e.g., semen volume, motility) to create a comprehensive fertility profile. Results may guide treatments like assisted reproductive technologies (ART) or lifestyle adjustments.
Short name
Sperm Morphology Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘teratozoospermia index’ measure exactly?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes improve sperm morphology?
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