A semen analysis looks at the volume and quality of a man’s sperm. It is one of the first steps to detect male fertility issues. The test also shows whether a vasectomy was successful. Semen analysis involves collecting a semen sample and evaluating it in a lab.
This substance is released from a man’s penis when he has an orgasm (ejaculates). It contains:
Sperm, male reproductive cells. The cells have a unique shape that contain:
Fluids, which make it possible to deposit sperm toward the back of a woman’s vagina. This area is close to the cervix, which is the opening of the uterus, where a fetus develops.
Proteins, vitamins and minerals that fuel the sperm’s journey to the egg.
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A semen analysis is a lab test that examines a sample of semen under a microscope. It evaluates things such as sperm count, activity (motility) and shape (morphology).
Reasons you may need a semen analysis include:
Male infertility: If a couple has been having difficulty trying to conceive, there may be a semen abnormality. In some cases, it’s due to an issue with a man’s sperm. A semen analysis evaluates the likelihood that a man can cause a pregnancy.
Vasectomy follow-up: A semen analysis determines whether a vasectomy was successful. This procedure blocks the tubes that deposit sperm in semen. If there are no sperm in the semen, the vasectomy worked, and a man cannot get a woman pregnant.
A man masturbates to produce a semen sample. This is the preferred method because it provides a clean sample. Since sperm counts vary from day to day, you may need to provide more than one sample spaced out a few weeks apart.
Healthcare providers use research-based methods to handle and test the semen. Going to a lab that specializes in semen analysis ensures you receive accurate results.
This includes labs that:
A post-vasectomy semen analysis checks to see whether the semen contains sperm.
When used as a fertility test in men, it looks at:
You will need to abstain from sexual activity for two to seven days. This includes intercourse and masturbation. Doing so ensures sperm counts are at their highest level, so you receive a thorough analysis.
This test is done after a vasectomy is performed, usually 8 to 12 weeks later. It’s helpful to masturbate several times after your vasectomy. This helps clear sperm from from your system. You may be able to provide a semen sample at home and then bring it to the lab.
Providing a sample by masturbating is the preferred method. This usually takes place in a lab in a private, comfortable room. You put the sample into a sterile, wide-mouthed container.
If you are not able to masturbate due to religious reasons, you still have options. Your healthcare provider may give you a nonlubricated condom to use during intercourse.
After a vasectomy, it can take several weeks for semen to become sperm-free (azoospermia) or have very few non-moving sperm. You should use backup birth control, like condoms, until you have a test with the desired result.
The lab compares the characteristics of your semen to expected values. Your semen should contain:
Abnormal results mean that you have a below-average chance of getting a woman pregnant. But a semen analysis is not the only factor in evaluating male infertility.
Extra testing is often needed to learn more. These tests may confirm or rule out:
A note from Cleveland Clinic
A semen analysis is a lab test that evaluates sperm count, motility, morphology and more. It can be a fertility test in men or confirm that a vasectomy was successful. For accurate results, follow instructions and provide a clean sample. Abnormal results often mean that more testing is necessary. It’s common to repeat the test to confirm your results or determine the next steps of your evaluation.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/30/2021.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy