What is a semen analysis?
A semen analysis (or sperm test) is a laboratory test that checks the health of your sperm. It examines important factors that affect your fertility, including
The number of sperm
How well they move
Their overall quality
Your doctor may recommend this test as part of a fertility evaluation if you and your partner are having difficulty conceiving.
What does the semen analysis test look for?
A semen analysis looks at several important aspects of your semen and sperm health, including:
Sperm count:
The total number of sperm present in your semen sample.
Sperm motility:
How well and how quickly your sperm moves.
Sperm morphology:
The shape and size of your sperm. Abnormal forms can affect fertility.
Seminal fluid volume:
The amount of semen you produce during ejaculation.
pH level:
The acidity or alkalinity of your semen.
Sperm vitality:
The percentage of live sperm in your sample.
White blood cells:
The presence of these cells in your semen may suggest an infection or inflammation in your reproductive tract.
Why do you undergo a sperm test?
Your doctor might suggest this test to look for potential problems on the male side if you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success. Male factors contribute to nearly half of all fertility problems, and a semen analysis can help identify these concerns early on.
In addition to helping diagnose fertility issues, a semen analysis can monitor the effectiveness of treatment over time and confirm whether you're producing enough healthy sperm to support conception.
It’s also used to verify the success of a vasectomy by ensuring that no sperm remain in the semen. In some cases, abnormal results might even point to underlying health conditions that need further investigation.
If you are facing fertility concerns or planning to start a family, request an appointment with Thomson Medical. Our specialists can perform a sperm analysis test to assess sperm health and guide you with a personalised treatment plan based on your results.
How is the semen analysis conducted?
Proper preparation is important to ensure your semen analysis results are accurate and reliable. The procedure is as follows:
Your doctor will usually ask you to avoid ejaculating for 2 to 5 days before the test. This period of abstinence helps ensure that your sperm cells are present in sufficient numbers for analysis.
The sample is typically collected by masturbating into a clean container provided by the clinic or laboratory, usually in a private room on-site.
To avoid contamination, the sample must not touch lubricants, water, or other foreign substances, as these can affect the test’s accuracy.
You should also inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are currently taking. Certain medicines and underlying medical conditions can affect the quality of your sperm cells and may influence how your results are interpreted.
By following these guidelines, you help ensure that the test provides the clearest possible insight into your reproductive health.
How does the semen analysis test work?
When you undergo a sperm count test, your cleanest semen sample goes through several specific steps to evaluate your fertility potential:
The sperm sample is collected and sent to a laboratory.
The lab technician places a small amount of your sample under a microscope to assess:
Your sperm concentration
Your sperm motility
Your sperm morphology
The lab also examines:
The volume of your semen sample
The pH level of your semen
Other chemical factors that affect fertility
A healthcare provider, typically a fertility specialist, reviews all your test results. They will compare your values to normal ranges and determine what the findings mean for your reproductive health.
What do your results mean?
Your semen analysis report will give you several important numbers that reflect the quality of your sperm and your fertility health:
Sperm count:
A normal result shows there is a healthy presence of more than 15 million sperm per millilitre of your semen.
Motility:
At least 40% of your sperm should be moving forward.
Poor sperm motility means fewer sperm are able to swim effectively, which can lead to fertility issues.
Morphology:
Around 4% or more of your sperm should have a normal shape and size.
Poor sperm morphology means a higher percentage of abnormally shaped sperm, which can affect the quality of your sperm and your chances of conception.
Volume:
Normal semen volume ranges from 1.5 to 5 millilitres. Fertility problems may occasionally be associated with low volume.
pH level:
The typical pH range is 7.2 to 8.0. Abnormal pH can affect sperm quality and movement.
If your results show low sperm count, poor motility, or poor morphology, it may indicate fertility issues or poor sperm quality. In such cases, your doctor may recommend that you take further tests to find out the cause and discuss possible treatment options to help improve your fertility.
FAQ
Where can you check your sperm in Singapore?
In Singapore, you can undergo semen analysis tests at fertility clinics, hospitals, and specialised laboratories. These facilities assess key factors of sperm health, such as sufficient sperm count, concentration of sperm, and quality of sperm, to help address issues with infertility or take the next step to fertility.
You may also consult a urologist or fertility specialist who can arrange for the test and interpret your results.
Can a GP check male fertility?
Yes, a general practitioner (GP) can assess male fertility, including ordering a semen analysis. If the initial results indicate any concerns or that more specialised care is needed, your GP may refer you to a fertility specialist or urologist for further evaluation and care.
Can men freeze sperm in Singapore?
Yes, sperm freezing services are available in Singapore for men who are concerned about their sperm's future ability to fertilise eggs. This option is particularly important for those facing treatments like chemotherapy that might affect the production of quality sperm
Can hormonal imbalance affect sperm quality and fertility?
Yes, a hormonal imbalance can significantly impact the ability of sperm to fertilise an egg by affecting the production of quality sperm, sperm viability, and overall factors of sperm health.
Hormones like testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinising hormone (LH) play key roles in sperm production.
If you experience symptoms such as low libido, fatigue, or an unexplained lack of sperm, your doctor may recommend hormone testing as part of your fertility evaluation to identify any underlying issues contributing to infertility.
Can you test your husband's sperm?
Yes, your husband can undergo semen analysis to evaluate the quality of his sperm and identify any potential issues with infertility. Fertility clinics, urologist offices, or laboratories can perform the procedure, which requires his participation to collect the sample.
Testing is an important step if you're having difficulty conceiving, as it helps determine whether there's an absence of sperm or other factors affecting your chances of fertilisation.
What is the sperm test cost in Singapore?
The cost of a sperm test in Singapore varies depending on the clinic and the type of test. Here's a general price range:
Public hospitals charge between SGD 80 and SGD 150 for a basic semen analysis. Subsidised rates may be available for Singaporean citizens and permanent residents.
Private hospitals charge between SGD 90 and SGD 300 for a basic test, while advanced tests, such as sperm DNA fragmentation, can cost SGD 400 or more.
Prices or packages may vary depending on the hospital, additional tests, and consultation fees. It's best to check with the hospital or clinic for exact costs.
Which foods increase sperm?
Certain foods may boost fertility by improving your sperm quality as well. These include:
Antioxidant-rich foods (like berries, nuts, and spinach) that protect sperm from damage.
Zinc-rich foods (like pumpkin seeds, oysters, and beef) that support the production of quality sperm.
Healthy fats (such as those found in avocados, olive oil, and nuts) that may improve sperm quality.
Vitamin C (found in citrus fruits and peppers) can improve sperm count and motility.
Folate (found in leafy greens and legumes) can improve sperm health.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are also important for sperm health. If concerns persist despite lifestyle changes, seeking medical attention is recommended to address any underlying conditions affecting fertility.
The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.
For more information, contact us:
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