What a Semen Analysis Can Tell Us

When a couple has difficulty conceiving, fertility evaluation should include both partners. For men, one of the first and most useful steps is a semen analysis. 

This simple test used here at University Reproductive Associates provides important information about sperm production and function and can help identify potential male-factor infertility.

A semen analysis doesn't tell us everything about a man's fertility, and an abnormal result doesn't necessarily mean that pregnancy isn't possible.

It’s not unusual for semen parameters to vary from one sample to another. However, the results provide our specialists valuable information that can help determine whether additional evaluation or treatment may be appropriate.

What a semen analysis always measures

A standard semen analysis looks at several characteristics of the semen and sperm:

Semen volume 

This measures the amount of fluid in the ejaculate. A low volume can sometimes be associated with problems such as obstruction, hormonal factors, or incomplete collection, while a higher volume can have other causes.

Sperm concentration 

Concentration tells us how many sperm are present in a given amount of semen. We also look at the total sperm number, which takes sperm concentration and semen volume into account.

Motility 

This describes how well the sperm move. Movement is important because sperm need to travel through the female reproductive tract to reach and fertilize an egg.

Morphology 

Morphology is an evaluation of the size and shape of the sperm. The lab also evaluates characteristics of the sperm head, midpiece, and tail. While morphology can provide useful information, it should be interpreted as part of the semen analysis rather than on its own.

Depending on the situation, we may recommend additional testing.

What abnormal semen may reveal

Abnormal semen parameters can identify potential male reproductive factors that may affect conception. Low sperm production, reduced motility, or abnormal morphology can all contribute to difficulty conceiving. 

Male infertility can also be related to problems with sperm production, sperm transport, or the ability to ejaculate normally.

An abnormal result isn’t a diagnosis by itself but a part of your larger fertility picture.

Similarly, a semen analysis within the expected reference range doesn’t guarantee fertility. Pregnancy depends on many factors involving both partners, and semen analysis alone can’t confirm whether a man is fertile or infertile.

Why one test may not be conclusive

Sperm production is always changing, and semen results can vary. For that reason, an abnormal first test may be followed by another semen analysis to determine whether the finding repeats.

It's also important to consider the circumstances surrounding the sample, including collection and laboratory procedures. The World Health Organization provides standardized methods for semen analysis to improve the reliability and comparability of results between laboratories.

Considerations beyond simple numbers

One of the most important parts of fertility care is putting semen analysis results into context.

Our team also considers your medical history, medications, lifestyle factors, previous pregnancies, sexual and reproductive history, physical examination, and your partner's fertility evaluation along with the semen analysis.

Certain medications, anabolic steroid use, smoking, excessive alcohol use, obesity, and environmental exposures can also affect sperm production and quality.

The goal of a semen analysis is to understand what the results may tell us about your reproductive health and determine whether there are opportunities to improve fertility or whether additional evaluation or treatment is appropriate.

Steps after a semen analysis 

Some men with abnormal results may benefit from additional evaluation to look for an underlying cause. Others may simply need repeat testing. 

Depending on the findings and the couple's circumstances, treatment may range from lifestyle changes and medical management to assisted reproductive technologies.

A semen analysis is a relatively straightforward first step that can provide valuable information and help guide a more complete, personalized approach to fertility care. Call University Reproductive Associates today or use the online tool to request an appointment. 

We proudly serve women and their partners in Hasbrouck Heights, Hoboken, Wayne, Millburn, and Denville, New Jersey, and Goshen, New York.