A semen analysis looks at the main factors that affect male fertility, including semen volume, sperm count, motility and total motile sperm count. Healthy results include semen volume of 2 to 5 ml, sperm concentration of at least 15 million per ml, at least 32% progressively motile sperm or 40% including non progressive motility, and a total motile sperm count above 45 million.
If abnormalities are found, a more detailed analysis may check morphology, colour and viscosity, pH, vitality, white blood cells and key nutrients in semen. An early semen analysis can give quick, reliable fertility insights, and if results are abnormal, lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise and stress management may improve sperm quality in 72 days.
Lifestyle matters for fertility. A BMC Public Health study found that women with 4–5 healthy habits had a 59% lower risk of infertility.
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takes 3 minutes to completeSemen is the fluid released during ejaculation, containing sperm cells that fertilize the egg. In a standard semen analysis, a sample is collected and assessed for various parameters that impact fertility. Here’s what a semen test measures:
This refers to the total amount of fluid ejaculated. Normal semen volume ranges between 2-5 milliliters (ml).
Sperm count measures how many million sperm cells are present per milliliter of semen.
Sperm motility determines how well sperm swim towards the egg. It’s graded as:
A healthy sample should have at least 32% progressively motile sperm or 40% when including non-progressive motility. Poor motility, known as Asthenozoospermia, can reduce the likelihood of conception.
TMSC represents the total number of moving sperm in the ejaculate, calculated by multiplying:
Semen volume (ml) × Sperm concentration (million/ml) × Motility (%)
A healthy TMSC should be above 45 million sperm cells to optimize fertility chances.
If abnormalities are detected, a more advanced semen analysis may be needed, evaluating:
Sperm morphology assesses how many sperm have a normal oval shape, as per Kruger’s strict criteria:
Normal sample: At least 4% of sperm have a standard shape
Teratozoospermia: Less than 4% normal-shaped sperm
Misshapen sperm may struggle to move or penetrate the egg, impacting fertility.
This content is for educational purposes only. It has been reviewed for scientific accuracy, but it does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding medical questions or fertility treatment decisions.
Reviewed for scientific accuracy by: Dr. Mona Bungum
Last reviewed: February 2025
Lifestyle matters for fertility. A BMC Public Health study found that women with 4–5 healthy habits had a 59% lower risk of infertility.
Fill out the questionnaire, and get a personalised, holistic and evidence-based programme tailored to you.
takes 3 minutes to complete
Semen is slightly alkaline (pH 7.2-8.0). Abnormal pH levels can:
✔️ Kill sperm
✔️ Reduce motility
✔️ Lower fertilization chances
Vitality measures the percentage of live sperm in a sample. A normal result is:
Elevated white blood cells (Leukospermia) can indicate infection or inflammation, which may reduce sperm quality.
Certain substances in semen are crucial for sperm function:
A semen analysis offers quick results that help pinpoint any fertility issues early.
If results are abnormal, lifestyle adjustments (diet, exercise, stress management) can boost sperm quality in just 72 days.
Instead of months (or years) of unsuccessful attempts, an early semen analysis helps couples make informed decisions sooner.
