What do the results mean?
The results of a semen analysis include measurements of quantity and quality of semen and sperm. These include:
Volume: the amount of semen
Sperm count: the number of sperm per milliliter
Sperm movement, also known as motility
Sperm shape, also known as morphology
White blood cells, which may be a sign of an infection
If any of these results are not normal, it may mean there is problem with your fertility. But other factors, including the use of alcohol, tobacco, and some herbal medicines, can affect your results. If you have questions about your results or other concerns about your fertility, talk to your health care provider.
If your semen analysis was done to check the success of your vasectomy, your provider will look for the presence of any sperm. If no sperm is found, you and your partner should be able to stop using other forms of birth control. If sperm is found, you may need repeat testing until your sample is clear of sperm. In the meantime, you and your partner will have to take precautions in order to prevent pregnancy.
Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.
