Question 1

What is a normal sperm count in semen analysis?

Accepted Answer

According to WHO 2021 reference values, a normal sperm concentration is 16 million sperm per mL or above, and a total sperm count of 39 million or above in the entire sample. Anything below these values is classified as oligozoospermia (low sperm count). At least two tests 2-4 weeks apart are needed to confirm.

Question 2

What is normal sperm motility?

Accepted Answer

WHO 2021 defines normal sperm motility as: progressive motility at or above 30% (sperm that move forward), and total motility at or above 42% (all sperm showing any movement). Poor motility is called asthenozoospermia. When severe, ICSI is the most effective treatment option.

Question 3

What does abnormal sperm morphology mean?

Accepted Answer

Normal morphology at or above 4% is the WHO threshold (Kruger strict criteria). Abnormal morphology (teratozoospermia) means most sperm have defects in head, midpiece, or tail shape. ICSI allows selection of morphologically normal sperm, bypassing this barrier. Always confirm with a repeat test before making treatment decisions.

Question 4

What is the cost of semen analysis in India?

Accepted Answer

Semen analysis in India costs between Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 depending on the city and lab. Major diagnostic chains charge Rs 600-1,500. Fertility clinic labs may charge Rs 1,000-2,000 but typically use WHO 2021 Kruger strict criteria for morphology, which is more accurate. Always request a WHO 2021-compliant report.

Question 5

What is azoospermia?

Accepted Answer

Azoospermia means zero sperm in the ejaculate. It affects about 1% of all men and 10-15% of infertile men. It is either obstructive (ducts blocked) or non-obstructive (production failure). Surgical sperm retrieval (TESA, TESE, MESA, MicroTESE) combined with ICSI can achieve pregnancy even in azoospermia cases. Consult a reproductive urologist for full evaluation.

Question 6

How many days of abstinence are needed before a semen analysis?

Accepted Answer

WHO recommends 2 to 5 days of sexual abstinence before semen collection. Less than 2 days may produce a lower volume and count. More than 5 days may reduce motility and increase DNA fragmentation. Follow your specific lab or clinic instructions.

Parameter	Normal Value	What It Means
Volume	≥1.5 mL	Amount of ejaculate; low volume may indicate blockage or hormonal issue
Sperm Concentration	≥16 million/mL	Number of sperm per mL of semen
Total Sperm Count	≥39 million	Total number in the entire sample
Progressive Motility	≥30%	Percentage of sperm that move forward effectively
Total Motility	≥42%	All sperm that show any movement
Normal Morphology	≥4%	Percentage of normally shaped sperm (Kruger strict criteria)
Vitality	≥54%	Percentage of live sperm
pH	≥7.2	Acidity — affects sperm survival

Diagnosis	Meaning	Treatment Options
Oligozoospermia	Low sperm count (<16M/mL)	Lifestyle changes, medications, IUI, ICSI
Asthenozoospermia	Poor motility (<30% progressive)	Antioxidants, ICSI if severe
Teratozoospermia	Abnormal shape (<4% normal)	ICSI — allows selection of best sperm
Azoospermia	Zero sperm in ejaculate	Surgical retrieval (TESA/MESA) + ICSI
OAT Syndrome	Low count + low motility + abnormal shape	IVF + ICSI; donor sperm if very severe

Detail	Information
Cost in India	₹500 – ₹2,000
Abstinence required	2–5 days (no ejaculation before test)
Sample collection	At the lab (private room) or at home within 30 minutes of arrival
Results turnaround	Same day or next day
How many tests needed?	At least 2 tests, 2–4 weeks apart (sperm parameters fluctuate)

🔬 Semen Analysis — Male Fertility Evaluation

WHO Normal Reference Values (2021)

Understanding Abnormal Results

Test Details

How Men Can Improve Sperm Quality