When a couple has been trying to conceive without success, the investigation almost always focuses disproportionately on the woman. Hormone tests, scans, and procedures are arranged, weeks pass, and the male partner has often not been evaluated at all. This approach is clinically indefensible. Male factor infertility contributes to approximately half of all infertility cases, and the semen analysis is a simple, non-invasive, inexpensive test that provides immediate and clinically critical information. Beginning a fertility investigation without it is like investigating chest pain without an ECG.
At KIMS Cuddles at KIMS Hospitals, Electronic City, semen analysis is performed in our specialist andrology laboratory as a routine and early component of every fertility evaluation, for individuals and couples across Electronic City, Hosur Road, Sarjapur Road, and South Bengaluru.
What Semen Analysis Measures
A semen analysis is nothing but a laboratory examination of a semen sample that assesses several parameters, each of which provides different information about the male partner's fertility potential.
Volume measures the total amount of semen in the ejaculate. Low volume may indicate problems with seminal vesicle function or retrograde ejaculation where semen travels backwards into the bladder rather than forward.
Sperm concentration takes into account the number of sperm per millilitre of semen. The WHO reference value for normal concentration is fifteen million sperm per millilitre or more. Values below this threshold, known as oligospermia, reduce the probability of natural conception and influence the choice of fertility treatment.
Total sperm count is the sperm concentration multiplied by the total ejaculate volume and provides a more complete picture of the number of sperm available.
Motility assesses what proportion of sperm are moving, and of those that are moving, whether they are moving progressively forward. Progressive motility, where sperm swim in a straight line or in large circles, is essential for the sperm to travel through the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tube to reach the egg. Poor motility, known as asthenospermia, is one of the most common findings in male factor infertility.
Morphology examines the shape of the sperm under high-power microscopy. Only a small proportion of sperm in any sample have a completely normal shape, and the WHO reference value for normal morphology is four percent or more using Kruger strict criteria. Abnormal morphology, known as teratospermia, affects the sperm's ability to fertilise an egg.
Vitality assesses what proportion of sperm are alive, including those that are not moving. A high proportion of immotile but viable sperm suggests an issue with motility rather than sperm death.
Additional Parameters
Beyond the basic criteria, our andrology laboratory measures pH, liquefaction time and the presence of white blood cells, which may indicate infection or inflammation of the reproductive tract that requires treatment before fertility treatment can start.
In selected cases where standard parameters are normal but fertility problems persist, sperm DNA fragmentation testing is available. This assesses the integrity of the genetic material within the sperm and can identify a cause of recurrent IVF failure or miscarriage that is not apparent from standard semen analysis.
How to Produce a Sample
A semen sample for analysis is produced through masturbation, either at our clinic or at home with transport to the laboratory within one hour in a sterile container. To produce a representative sample, a period of abstinence from ejaculation of two to five days is recommended before the test. Abstinence shorter than two days may give a falsely low sperm count. Abstinence longer than five days may give a falsely low motility result.
Our team provides clear written instructions for sample collection, including how to transport a home-collected sample correctly to ensure accurate results.
Interpreting Results
Semen analysis results are interpreted in the context of the WHO reference values established from population data on fertile men. A result below the reference range for one or more parameters does not necessarily mean conception is impossible without treatment, but it does indicate that fertility may be affected and guides decisions about investigation and management.
When a semen analysis result is significantly abnormal, a repeat test is recommended after two to three months. Sperm production takes approximately seventy-two days from the earliest stage to the mature sperm in the ejaculate, which means that factors affecting sperm production, including illness, fever, medication, and lifestyle factors, take several months to resolve from the semen. A single abnormal result should therefore not be taken as a definitive picture without confirmation.
When Further Investigation Is Needed
Significantly abnormal semen parameters, particularly severely low sperm count or complete absence of sperm, require further investigation to identify the underlying cause. Blood tests assessing the hormonal axis, including FSH, LH, testosterone, and prolactin, identify whether the problem is at the level of the brain and pituitary, the testicles, or the reproductive tract. Scrotal ultrasound identifies varicocele, which is the most common correctable cause of male infertility, alongside other structural abnormalities.
Genetic testing, including karyotype and Y chromosome microdeletion analysis, is recommended when sperm count is very low or absent, as chromosomal causes account for a significant proportion of these cases.
Why Choose KIMS Cuddles at KIMS Hospitals, Electronic City
Semen analysis is only as useful as the laboratory performing it. Results from laboratories that do not follow WHO methodology, do not use strict morphology criteria, or do not have appropriate quality control can be misleading and lead to incorrect treatment decisions. At KIMS Andrology Lab, Electronic City, we follow WHO fifth edition approach with strong quality control for providing reliable findings reflecting the fertility status of the male partner.
Book a Semen Analysis
Semen analysis appointments at KIMS Cuddles at KIMS Hospitals, Electronic City can be booked online or by phone. Both partners should be evaluated early in the fertility investigation process, and our team ensures that the male factor assessment is given equal priority from the outset.
