Three reasons a Comprehensive Semen Analysis is right for you
- This test provides a detailed assessment of sperm count, motility, morphology, and overall fertility potential
- It helps identify underlying issues affecting male reproductive health and guides treatment or lifestyle adjustments
- Timely and accurate analysis can support family planning, fertility treatments, or post-vasectomy monitoring
What is a Comprehensive Semen Analysis?
A Comprehensive Semen Analysis evaluates the quantity and quality of sperm in a semen sample. It provides critical information on sperm concentration, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and overall reproductive potential. In some cases, rapid reporting of key parameters can be available within 4 hours, with detailed morphology results following.
This test is recommended for:
- Men experiencing difficulties conceiving
- Individuals monitoring fertility after medical treatments or vasectomy
- Men undergoing fertility investigations for assisted reproductive technologies
- Routine reproductive health assessments
What can the test detect?
A semen analysis can reveal:
- Low sperm count (oligospermia) or absence of sperm (azoospermia)
- Reduced sperm motility or abnormal morphology
- Signs of infection or inflammation affecting fertility
- Issues that may benefit from lifestyle changes, supplements, or medical intervention
How does a Comprehensive Semen Analysis work?
The test requires a semen sample, ideally produced on-site at our London laboratory's facilities. The sample is analysed in our Andrology Department using WHO 2021 guidelines for reference values. Parameters such as sperm count, motility, morphology, and other seminal components are evaluated.
In special circumstances, samples may be produced off-site, but only in sterile containers provided by our Laboratory to ensure accuracy. For comprehensive analyses, samples are typically reported within 2 days. Rapid reporting of key parameters can be available in 4 hours, with full morphology results following.
Sample collection guidelines
- Patients should abstain from ejaculation for 2-3 days prior to the test. A minimum of 2 days and maximum of 7 days is acceptable for standard semen analyses.
- For ROS or DNA fragmentation tests, abstinence should be at least 2 days but no longer than 3 days.
- All samples must be collected directly into the sterile containers provided by our laboratory to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results.
- Samples are weighed and batch-tested for sperm cytotoxicity to maintain reliability.
- WHO 2021 guidelines recommend two separate analyses before confirming a diagnosis, so multiple samples may be required.
What can I expect at my appointment?
You will be guided to a private collection area at the laboratory. The process is confidential and performed under hygienic conditions. Once the sample is collected, it will be analysed promptly to provide accurate results.
After analysis, you will receive a detailed report showing sperm count, motility, morphology, and other relevant parameters, along with reference ranges based on WHO 2021 guidelines. Your healthcare provider can then discuss any findings and recommend next steps if necessary.
Are there any risks with this test?
A semen analysis is safe and non-invasive. The only potential discomfort may be minor stress or anxiety during collection, which is normal. There are no medical risks associated with providing a sample.
How do I schedule my appointment?
To book your appointment, click the "Book Your Appointment" button at the top of the page. Select your preferred clinic, date, and time. If you have any questions about sample containers or special instructions, please contact the laboratory in advance.
Description provided by Better2Know.
