A laboratory test used in the assessment of male infertility that examines sperm count, motility and morphology according to WHO criteria.
Indication
- Inability of a couple to conceive after at least 12 months of unprotected intercourse (infertility evaluation)
- Confirmation of absence of sperm (azoospermia) after vasectomy
- Follow-up of varicocele or undescended testis (cryptorchidism)
- Evaluation after previous testicular infection, trauma or chemotherapy/radiotherapy
- Investigation of the impact of hormonal disorders
- Baseline assessment before assisted reproductive treatments (IVF, IUI)
Preparation
- 2-7 days of sexual abstinence (no ejaculation) is required before sample collection
- If a febrile illness has occurred recently, the test is preferably performed 2-3 months later
- Avoidance of alcohol, smoking and intense stress in the days before the test is recommended
- The sample is preferably obtained by masturbation under laboratory conditions; if collected at home it must be delivered within 1 hour
- Medications used (hormones, antibiotics) are reported to the physician
How it's performed
- The sample is collected in a sterile, wide-mouth container
- The collection time and duration are reported to the laboratory
- Liquefaction time (usually 15-30 minutes) is awaited
- Sperm count, motility and morphology are evaluated microscopically
- Volume, pH, viscosity and the presence of leukocytes are examined
- Results are reported according to the WHO 2021 reference values
Post-procedure
- Results are usually available the same day or the following day
- If results are borderline or abnormal, repeat testing 2-4 weeks later is recommended
- Clinical evaluation is performed by a urology specialist
- Hormonal tests and genetic studies may be added when needed
- Lifestyle recommendations (smoking/alcohol reduction, nutrition) may be provided
Risks
- The procedure is non-invasive and does not carry physical risk
- Single-test results may show natural variability
- Psychological discomfort may occur during sample collection
- Reliability of results may decrease if sample transport time is prolonged
FAQ
Is a single test sufficient?
Because sperm parameters can fluctuate over time, when an abnormal or borderline result is obtained, at least two tests 2-4 weeks apart are recommended.
Why is sexual abstinence important?
According to WHO guidelines, 2-7 days of abstinence is required for standardized evaluation of sperm parameters. Shorter or longer durations may yield misleading results.
Can I collect the sample at home?
Collection in the laboratory is preferred when possible. If collected at home, the sample should be kept close to body temperature and reach the laboratory within 1 hour.
What should be done if results are abnormal?
Results should be evaluated by a urology specialist. A single abnormal result alone is not diagnostic; comprehensive assessment is performed with repeat tests and additional investigations.
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