A semen analysis (sperm count test) measures sperm count, motility, morphology, volume, and other parameters to assess male fertility. At Mother Hospitals, Boduppal, we perform semen analysis using WHO 2021 reference values with same-day results. It is the first test for any man trying to conceive. Call 97059 93366 to book.
WHO 2021 parameters · Same-day results · Expert interpretation by Dr. E. Prashanthi Reddy · The essential first test for every man trying to conceive.
MBBS, DGO, PG Diploma in ART – Kiel University, Germany | 20+ Years Experience | TGMC Reg: 50624
A semen analysis — also called a spermogram, seminal fluid analysis, or simply a sperm count test — is a laboratory examination of the semen sample to evaluate male fertility. It is the single most important investigation for any man who is trying to conceive, preparing for IVF or IUI, or has been told there may be a male factor contributing to infertility.
Male factor infertility accounts for approximately 40–50% of all infertility cases. Despite this, women are often investigated first. A semen analysis is a simple, non-invasive test that can quickly confirm or exclude a male contribution. Before any fertility treatment — IUI, IVF, or ICSI — a current semen analysis is mandatory. It is also performed after vasectomy to confirm success, and to monitor recovery after illness or treatment.
At Mother Hospitals, the sample is processed in our onsite andrology laboratory. Our trained andrologists use computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) for motility and count, and strict Kruger morphology criteria for morphology assessment — all benchmarked against the WHO 2021 6th Edition reference values. Results are typically available the same day.
The World Health Organization updated its semen analysis reference values in 2021 (6th Edition). These are the lower reference limits — values a man must meet or exceed to be in the fertile reference population. These are NOT "ideal" values; they represent the minimum threshold associated with natural conception.
Source: WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, 6th Edition, 2021.
When one or more parameters fall below the WHO 2021 lower reference limits, there are specific medical terms used to describe the finding. Understanding these terms helps you have an informed conversation with your doctor.
When sperm concentration is below 16 million/ml (WHO 2021), this is called oligospermia. Mild oligospermia (5–15 million/ml) may respond to lifestyle change and medical therapy. Severe oligospermia (below 5 million/ml) usually requires ICSI for conception. Common causes include hormonal imbalance, varicocele, testicular damage, or genetic factors.
When total motility falls below 42% or progressive motility below 30%, this is called asthenospermia. Poor motility means sperm cannot reach and penetrate the egg. Causes include oxidative stress, varicocele, infection, anti-sperm antibodies, or sperm DNA damage. Sperm wash and IUI, or ICSI, bypass the motility barrier. A sperm DNA fragmentation test is often recommended alongside.
When fewer than 4% of sperm have normal shape under strict Kruger criteria, this is teratospermia. Morphology affects the sperm's ability to penetrate the egg. However, isolated teratospermia (poor morphology with normal count and motility) is associated with reduced natural conception rates but can often still achieve pregnancy with IUI or IVF+ICSI. Don't panic if your morphology report says "3% normal" — it is common.
Azoospermia means no sperm are found in the ejaculate after centrifugation. It affects 1% of men and 10–15% of infertile men. It can be obstructive (a blockage preventing sperm from reaching the ejaculate — often treatable) or non-obstructive (reduced sperm production in the testes). Surgical sperm retrieval (TESA/PESA/Micro-TESE) can often obtain sperm for ICSI. See our complete guide: Azoospermia Treatment Hyderabad.
OAT syndrome is the combination of low count (oligo), low motility (astheno), and abnormal morphology (terato) together. It is one of the most common patterns seen in male infertility clinics. OAT syndrome almost always requires ICSI — natural conception is very unlikely with all three parameters impaired. The good news is ICSI bypasses all three problems, requiring only a few healthy-looking sperm for fertilisation.
Preparation matters. An incorrectly collected or poorly prepared sample can produce misleading results — leading to unnecessary worry or false reassurance. Follow these guidelines for the most accurate result.
The most important preparation step is the abstinence (no ejaculation) period before collecting the sample. 2–5 days is the WHO-recommended range. Fewer than 2 days: the sample may show low count and volume because the reproductive tract hasn't had time to replenish. More than 5–7 days: motility decreases as older sperm deteriorate. The sweet spot is 3–4 days for most men. Always record your exact abstinence period on the sample form — our lab will factor this into interpretation.
At the lab (preferred): Mother Hospitals has a private, comfortable sample collection room. Collecting at the lab eliminates transport time and temperature variation, giving the most accurate result. No referral letter needed — just call 97059 93366 to book. At home: If home collection is necessary, use the sterile wide-mouthed container provided by the lab. Keep the container at body temperature (e.g. in a shirt pocket or crotch area — not a bag) during transport. Deliver within 30–60 minutes of collection. Delays beyond 60 minutes significantly reduce motility readings.
Note: You do NOT need to fast before a semen analysis. Food intake does not affect the result.
A single abnormal semen analysis result does not mean infertility. There is significant natural variation in sperm production. Here is the systematic approach Dr. E. Prashanthi Reddy follows at Mother Hospitals for any man with a suboptimal result.
Sperm production follows a 72-day (approximately 3-month) cycle. Illness, stress, fever, or a poor collection can dramatically affect results in one sample. We recommend repeating after a minimum of 4–6 weeks with strict preparation. If two tests confirm the abnormality, further investigation is warranted. Many men are reassured to find the second result significantly better.
If count is significantly reduced, we measure: FSH (high FSH suggests testicular failure; low FSH suggests a pituitary/hormonal problem), LH, Testosterone (total and free — low testosterone is treatable), and Prolactin (elevated prolactin from a pituitary adenoma can suppress sperm production and is highly treatable). These tests guide whether medication can improve sperm production.
Standard semen analysis does not measure sperm DNA quality. Men with normal-looking semen analysis can still have high DNA damage — which is linked to recurrent miscarriage and failed IVF. We recommend a sperm DNA fragmentation test (DFI) for men with: recurrent pregnancy loss, unexplained infertility, repeated IVF failure with good embryos, high oxidative stress risk factors (smoking, obesity, diabetes), or age above 40. A DFI above 25% significantly impacts outcomes.
Where a specific cause is found — varicocele, hormonal imbalance, infection, or obstruction — targeted treatment can restore fertility. Where no specific reversible cause exists, assisted reproduction (IUI for mild cases, ICSI for moderate-severe cases) is the next step. Dr. E. Prashanthi Reddy works with urologists and andrologists for cases requiring surgical sperm retrieval. See: TESA / PESA / Micro-TESE Hyderabad.
Many couples are confused about the relationship between these two tests. They measure completely different things.
Semen analysis is mandatory before any fertility treatment. The result directly determines which treatment is most appropriate and affects treatment success rates.
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) requires a minimum of 5–10 million motile sperm after washing. If the count is below this, IUI success rates are too low and IVF or ICSI is recommended instead. IVF requires normal or mildly reduced sperm — enough for conventional insemination in the laboratory. ICSI requires only a few viable sperm and is used for severe oligospermia, poor morphology, OAT syndrome, or previous fertilisation failure.
Many couples arrive with semen analysis results that are 6–12 months old. Sperm quality can change significantly over 3 months. We require a semen analysis done within 3–6 months before starting any IVF or IUI cycle. If the previous result was poor, we also check whether lifestyle modifications or medical treatment have improved matters. This protects your investment in treatment.
Normal (WHO 2021): Natural conception or IUI possible depending on other factors
Mild oligospermia (5–15 million/ml): IUI may be suitable; IVF+ICSI for faster outcome
Severe oligospermia (<5 million/ml): ICSI recommended
Cryptozoospermia (<0.1 million/ml): Surgical sperm retrieval may be needed
Azoospermia: TESA/PESA/Micro-TESE assessment required
Semen analysis is one of the most affordable and important fertility tests available. At Mother Hospitals, we offer competitive pricing with no hidden charges.
Count · Motility · Morphology · Volume · pH · WHO 2021 Report
Computer-assisted analysis · Detailed morphology · Strict Kruger criteria · Sperm culture option
Combined package — semen parameters plus DFI (DNA Fragmentation Index)
Prices are indicative and subject to change. Call 97059 93366 for current pricing and package information. No prior appointment needed for semen analysis; walk-in collection is accepted during lab hours.
We use the latest WHO 6th Edition (2021) reference values — not the older 2010 criteria still used by many labs. This matters because the 2021 values for concentration (16 million/ml) are different from 2010 (15 million/ml) and interpretation differs. Ask your current lab which WHO edition they use.
Our dedicated andrology laboratory processes samples on-site — meaning no transport delays that degrade motility readings. The team includes trained andrologists familiar with the specific needs of fertility patients, not just routine lab staff.
Results are typically ready the same day. For couples in urgent decision-making about treatment, or for those travelling from outside Hyderabad, same-day reporting means you leave with a result and a plan — not a week's wait.
Unlike a standalone diagnostic lab, your semen analysis at Mother Hospitals is reviewed by Dr. E. Prashanthi Reddy in the context of your complete fertility profile. You don't just get numbers — you get interpretation and a next-step recommendation.
We understand male fertility testing can feel sensitive. Our collection rooms are private and comfortable. The entire process is handled discreetly. Many men who have delayed testing find the experience far more straightforward than they anticipated.
Dr. E. Prashanthi Reddy's PG Diploma in ART from Kiel University, Germany included training in andrology and male factor fertility — ensuring she interprets results in the context of the most current international evidence, including WHO 2021.
No — a single semen analysis should never be the sole basis for a major fertility decision. Sperm quality varies significantly from day to day, and is affected by abstinence period, collection technique, illness, stress, and transport time. The WHO 2021 guidelines recommend that if the first sample is abnormal, a second sample be collected at least 4 weeks later under the same conditions. Only if both tests show the same abnormality should it be considered a confirmed finding. Many men are relieved to find their second test substantially better.
Yes — lifestyle has a meaningful impact on sperm quality, though results take 3 months to appear (one full sperm production cycle). Evidence-based changes that help: stopping smoking (improves count and motility), reducing alcohol (improves morphology), losing excess weight (obesity is strongly linked to poor sperm parameters and low testosterone), sleeping 7–8 hours, reducing heat exposure (boxers, avoiding laptops on lap and hot baths), and managing diabetes. Antioxidant supplements — specifically CoQ10, zinc, selenium, and vitamin C — have evidence supporting modest improvements in motility and morphology. Always discuss supplements with your doctor before starting.
Yes — though the effect is more gradual than the female biological clock. After age 40, men show progressive decline in sperm motility and morphology, and increased sperm DNA fragmentation. Sperm volume and count tend to decrease after 50. Importantly, advanced paternal age (above 45) is associated with increased rates of certain genetic conditions in offspring and is a factor in recurrent miscarriage. If you are over 40 and planning a pregnancy, a sperm DNA fragmentation test alongside standard semen analysis is advisable.
The sample collection itself takes 5–10 minutes. Laboratory processing takes approximately 1–2 hours. At Mother Hospitals, results are typically available the same day — usually within 2–4 hours of collection. You can collect in the morning and have your result before leaving the clinic.
Yes, though collecting at the clinic is strongly preferred for the most accurate motility readings. If home collection is necessary, use the sterile container provided by the lab (not any household container). Collect by masturbation only — never use a standard condom as the lubricant is spermicidal. Keep the sample at body temperature during transport (inside shirt, close to body) and deliver to the lab within 30–60 minutes. Always record the exact time of collection and your abstinence period.
Isolated teratospermia (low morphology alone) is a relatively common finding and does not mean you cannot conceive naturally. Natural pregnancy is still possible, though rates are somewhat reduced. IUI success is lower for isolated teratospermia compared to normal morphology. IVF+ICSI is highly effective even with very low morphology because the embryologist manually selects the best-looking sperm. You should also consider a sperm DNA fragmentation test, as poor morphology sometimes correlates with higher DNA damage.
Yes — varicocele (dilated veins in the scrotum that raise testicular temperature) is the most common surgically correctable cause of male infertility and is found in approximately 35–40% of infertile men. Varicocele typically causes reduced count, poor motility, and increased abnormal morphology — often a combination of all three (OAT syndrome). Varicocele repair (varicocelectomy) can improve semen parameters in 60–70% of men, sometimes enough to achieve natural pregnancy or significantly improve IVF/ICSI outcomes. See: Varicocele Treatment Hyderabad.
A sperm culture (semen culture) tests for bacterial infection in the semen — different from semen analysis, which tests sperm parameters. It is recommended when: the semen analysis shows elevated white blood cells (leukocytospermia, above 1 million/ml), there is a history of urinary tract infection, epididymitis, or prostatitis, or the semen appears discoloured or has abnormal smell. Common organisms found include E. coli and Enterococcus. Infection is treated with appropriate antibiotics, which usually also improves sperm parameters. Ask our lab team if you require a sperm culture alongside your routine analysis.
Dr. E. Prashanthi Reddy · TGMC Reg: 50624 · Same-day results available