Sample preparation
The recommended abstinence interval is followed and the entire sample is collected into a sterile container.
Male Infertility · Semen Analysis
Semen Analysis (Spermiogram)
Semen analysis assesses semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, morphology and overall sample quality using standard laboratory methods.
- Sample identity and time of receipt are documented
- The sample is assessed using WHO-aligned laboratory procedures
- Abnormal results are interpreted together with clinical history
Understand the topic in one minute
Semen Analysis Quick Summary
Core parameters
Volume, sperm concentration, total count, progressive motility, total motility, morphology and, when required, vitality are assessed.
Interpreting the result
All parameters, sample conditions and the couple’s reproductive history are considered together rather than relying on a single value.
Next step
If abnormalities are found, repeat analysis, andrology assessment, hormone tests or genetic testing may be considered.
Key information
What Is Semen Analysis?
It is a core male-fertility laboratory test that measures macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of a semen sample.
In brief:
Semen analysis assesses semen volume, sperm concentration/count, motility, morphology and other laboratory findings in an ejaculate sample. It cannot by itself determine whether natural conception will or will not occur.
Semen analysis is the main initial laboratory test in male-infertility assessment. Reliability depends on sample collection, transport time, temperature, complete collection of the ejaculate and the analytical method used.
Sperm concentration refers to the number of sperm per millilitre, while total sperm count refers to the number in the entire ejaculate. Motility and morphology are separate parameters.
Recent fever, surgery, some medicines, significant heat exposure and incomplete sample collection can affect results. An abnormal test should therefore not be interpreted without clinical context.
- The abstinence interval should follow laboratory instructions
- It is important to collect the entire ejaculate, including the first fraction
- Any sample loss or delay should be reported to the laboratory
- A second sample and clinical assessment may be planned after an abnormal result
Treatment options
The Difference Between Semen Analysis and Sperm DNA Damage Testing
Standard semen analysis and sperm DNA integrity tests answer different clinical questions.
Semen Analysis
Assesses sperm concentration/count, motility, morphology, semen volume and other basic sample characteristics.
- It is the first laboratory test for most couples
- It follows standard laboratory procedures
- It provides baseline information for treatment planning
Sperm DNA Damage
Assesses sperm DNA integrity using specialised methods.
- It is not routinely indicated for every patient
- It may be considered in selected cases of recurrent pregnancy loss or unsuccessful assisted reproduction
- The result does not determine treatment on its own
When are additional tests needed?
DNA fragmentation, oxidative-stress testing or advanced sperm-function tests should be requested only when there is a clinical reason.
Who should be assessed?
Who Should Have a Semen Analysis?
It is used in men planning pregnancy or when a condition may affect sperm production.
Delayed conception
It is the first laboratory step in male assessment when a couple has difficulty conceiving.
Before treatment
Current semen quality is assessed when IUI, IVF or ICSI treatment is being planned.
Varicocele or testicular condition
It helps assess whether clinical findings may be associated with impaired sperm production.
Before cancer treatment
Current sperm production and sample quality are assessed before sperm freezing.
After vasectomy
It may be used to check whether sperm remain in the ejaculate.
Hormone or medication use
Semen analysis may be used before and after treatments that can affect sperm production.
Are home sperm tests sufficient?
Home tests usually measure only limited parameters. Clinical decisions require a comprehensive semen analysis in a standard laboratory.
Diagnosis and preparation
How Should You Prepare for a Semen Analysis?
Correct preparation helps the sample reflect the individual’s current semen characteristics more accurately.
Sexual abstinence
Many laboratories recommend an abstinence interval of 2–7 days; the clinic’s specific instructions should be followed.
Sterile container
The sample should be collected only into the sterile, non-toxic container provided or approved by the laboratory.
Avoid standard lubricants
Standard lubricants can affect sperm motility; only laboratory-approved products should be used if needed.
Complete sample
The first fraction may contain a high proportion of sperm; any loss should be reported.
Time and temperature
A sample collected at home should reach the laboratory within the specified time and under appropriate temperature conditions.
Relevant health information
Recent fever, medication, surgery, infection and the abstinence interval are documented.
Step-by-step process
How Is Semen Analysis Performed?
A standard, traceable laboratory workflow is followed from sample acceptance through reporting.
Identity verification
Patient details, collection container, collection time and abstinence interval are documented.
Sample acceptance
Whether the sample is complete, where it was collected and transport conditions are recorded.
Liquefaction and volume
Semen liquefaction, appearance, volume and relevant physical characteristics are assessed.
Sperm concentration
Sperm are counted in a defined volume to calculate concentration and total sperm count.
Motility
Progressively motile, non-progressively motile and immotile sperm are assessed.
Morphology
Sperm head, midpiece and tail structure are assessed on a stained preparation.
Additional assessment
When indicated, vitality, leukocytes, pH or post-centrifugation pellet examination may be performed.
Report and interpretation
Results are interpreted in the context of reference distributions, sample conditions and clinical history.
Timeline
How Long Does Semen Analysis Take?
The sample is examined on the same day; reporting time depends on laboratory workflow and any additional tests.
Providing the sample
It is usually completed on the day of the appointment.
Liquefaction
The sample is allowed to liquefy appropriately before analysis.
Microscopic examination
Sperm concentration/count, motility and other parameters are assessed in the laboratory on the same day.
Morphology
Staining and detailed morphology assessment may require additional time.
Repeat sample
A second analysis may be planned after an appropriate interval when results are abnormal.
Advanced tests
DNA fragmentation testing or microbiological culture may require separate processing and reporting.
How many days do I need to stay in Cyprus?
A same-day visit is usually sufficient for semen analysis alone. Results can be discussed in person or remotely.
Factors affecting outcomes
What Can Affect Semen Analysis Results?
Natural biological variation and sample conditions can significantly affect the report.
Abstinence interval
Very short or long abstinence intervals can alter sperm count and motility.
Incomplete sample collection
Loss of the first fraction can make total sperm count appear lower than it is.
Febrile illness
High fever in the preceding months can temporarily affect semen parameters.
Transport to the laboratory
Delay and temperature changes can particularly affect motility assessment.
Medication and hormones
Testosterone, anabolic steroids and some treatments can suppress sperm production.
Laboratory standards
Calibration, staff competency and quality control are important for reproducible results.
Important distinction:
A single value below a reference limit is not a diagnosis of infertility, and a value above it does not guarantee pregnancy.
Personalised cost planning
Semen Analysis Costs
Costs vary according to whether additional laboratory assessments are required alongside the basic semen analysis.
Basic analysis
Volume, sperm concentration/count, motility and morphology.
Vitality testing
This may be needed when a high proportion of sperm are immotile.
Pellet examination
Detailed post-centrifugation examination when azoospermia is suspected.
Leukocyte assessment or culture
Selected tests when infection or inflammation is suspected.
Sperm DNA fragmentation
It is not routine and should be added only for a clinical reason.
Freezing
Freezing part of the same sample for treatment is planned separately.
Find out what your individual plan may include
Share previous semen analyses and treatment history to help determine which tests are actually needed.
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Laboratory Quality and Traceability in Semen Analysis
Semen analysis requires trained manual assessment, standard methods, equipment calibration and regular internal quality control.
Sample identity
The collection container, slide, tube and report are matched to the same patient record.
Time records
Collection, receipt, liquefaction and analysis times are documented.
Calibrated counting methods
Counting chambers, microscopes and pipettes are maintained under quality-control procedures.
Morphology standards
Staining and strict morphology criteria are applied by trained personnel.
Pellet search
When azoospermia is suspected, the post-centrifugation sample is examined carefully for rare sperm.
Report integrity
Results are transferred to the patient record after authorised staff review.
Multidisciplinary approach
Semen Analysis and the Laboratory Team
The semen report is interpreted together with the couple’s clinical situation and treatment goals.
Obstetrics, Gynaecology and IVF Specialist
Op. Dr. Beril Yüksel
Coordinates female-partner assessment alongside interpretation of the semen result.
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Scientific Director
Prof. Dr. Münevver Serdaroğulları
Integrates test results into the couple’s overall treatment plan.
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Embryology Laboratory Director
Zafer Atayurt
Manages sample acceptance, microscopic examination, sperm preparation and report quality control.
View profile →Urology and andrology assessment
Persistent or severe abnormalities require appropriate urology/andrology assessment; the laboratory report alone is not a diagnosis.
Balanced information
What Are the Limitations of Semen Analysis?
Although important, the test does not measure every biological aspect of fertility.
Variation in a single sample
One result may not represent a person’s long-term semen profile.
Functional limitations
Standard semen analysis does not directly measure sperm DNA integrity or all aspects of fertilisation potential.
Sample error
Incomplete collection or delay can produce misleadingly low results.
Misinterpretation of reference limits
Lower reference limits do not represent a definitive fertile–infertile boundary.
Manual assessment
Observer variation can occur in morphology and motility assessment.
Unnecessary additional testing
Not every abnormal result requires advanced or costly additional tests.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Semen Analysis
Common questions about sample preparation and interpretation of results.
What is a semen analysis?
It is a laboratory test that measures semen volume, sperm concentration/count, motility, morphology and additional parameters when required.
How long should abstinence be before semen analysis?
Many laboratories recommend 2–7 days; follow the specific interval provided by the clinic for your appointment.
Can the semen sample be collected at home?
If the laboratory permits home collection, the sterile-container, transport-time and temperature instructions must be followed.
Is fasting required for semen analysis?
Fasting is generally not required.
What should I do if part of the sample is lost?
The laboratory should be informed; repeat testing may be required, particularly if the first fraction was lost.
What is a normal sperm count?
WHO reference distributions are population-based; no single number defines fertility.
What does 4% morphology mean?
It refers to the proportion of sperm classified as normally shaped using strict morphology criteria and should be interpreted with the other semen parameters.
Why might sperm motility be low?
Infection, fever, varicocele, oxidative stress, delayed analysis and many other factors can contribute.
When should a semen analysis be repeated?
Repeat testing may be requested after an appropriate interval if results are abnormal, sample collection was incomplete or there is a clinical reason.
Can azoospermia be diagnosed from one test?
Confirmation commonly requires repeat semen analyses with careful post-centrifugation pellet examination.
Is sperm DNA testing included in a standard semen analysis?
No. It is a separate advanced test and is not routinely indicated for everyone.
Are semen analysis results available the same day in Cyprus?
Basic analysis can often be completed on the same day; detailed morphology or additional tests may take longer.