How to read a semen analysis report
Oct 25, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Qing
Introduction
Semen analysis reports can be evaluated in terms of semen volume, liquefaction time, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology to assess male reproductive health. Semen volume refers to the total amount of ejaculated semen, reflecting the secretory function of the accessory glands. The normal range is 1.5 to 6 ml; a volume less than 1.5 ml or greater than 8 ml is considered abnormal.
A semen analysis report can be interpreted by evaluating various parameters such as semen volume, liquefaction time, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology to assess male reproductive health. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Semen volume: This refers to the total amount of semen ejaculated per ejaculation, reflecting the secretory function of the accessory sex glands. The normal range is 1.5 to 6 ml. A volume less than 1.5 ml or more than 8 ml is considered abnormal.
2. Liquefaction time: Normally, semen should liquefy within 60 minutes. If it takes longer than 60 minutes, this indicates failure of semen to liquefy properly.
3. Sperm concentration: This includes both sperm density and total sperm count. A normal sperm concentration is greater than 15 million per milliliter, and a total sperm count exceeding 39 million is considered normal. Values below this threshold indicate oligospermia (low sperm count).
4. Sperm motility: Normal results require either more than 25% of sperm classified as grade a (rapid progressive motility), or a combined percentage of grade a and grade b (slow or non-progressive motility) sperm exceeding 50%. Lower values indicate asthenozoospermia (reduced sperm motility).
5. Sperm morphology: When normally shaped sperm account for less than 4% of the total sperm population, the likelihood of achieving pregnancy in a female partner is significantly reduced, which may suggest teratozoospermia (abnormal sperm morphology).
Note: If abnormalities are detected in the semen analysis report, it is recommended to seek prompt medical evaluation at a hospital and receive appropriate treatment based on the specific findings.
