How to Read a Semen Analysis in Hyderabad
Dr. Sravya Buggana, fertility specialist in Hyderabad
A semen analysis measures volume, sperm concentration, movement, and shape. The WHO 6th edition lower reference limits are 1.4 mL for volume, 16 million sperm per mL, 42% total motility, 30% progressive motility, and 4% normal forms. These figures are reference limits from a fertile group, not a pass or fail score. One report can vary, so doctors often repeat the test before calling it a male-factor problem.
What each number describes
- Volume is how much fluid was collected. A very low volume can reflect a collection problem or a blockage, and the lab notes matter.
- Concentration is sperm per millilitre. Total sperm number (concentration times volume) is also useful.
- Motility is the share of sperm that move. Progressive motility is the share that move forward.
- Morphology is the share with a typical shape on a strict reading. A low percentage is common and is read with the other numbers, not alone.
WHO lower reference limits
The table lists lower reference limits from the WHO laboratory manual, 6th edition (2021). A result below a limit is a reason to look further. A result above a limit does not promise pregnancy.
| Measure | Lower reference limit |
|---|---|
| Semen volume | 1.4 mL |
| Sperm concentration | 16 million per mL |
| Total sperm number | 39 million per ejaculate |
| Total motility | 42% |
| Progressive motility | 30% |
| Normal forms (strict) | 4% |
Why one report is not the whole story
Sperm numbers change with fever, illness, medicines, abstinence time, and how the sample was collected. A single low report is usually repeated after several weeks before a diagnosis is fixed. The laboratory should report the abstinence interval and the time from collection to testing. If the sample was collected at home and delayed in Hyderabad traffic, say so. That detail can explain a motility drop.
What happens after an abnormal report
Next steps depend on which value is low, whether it stays low on a repeat test, and the female partner’s age, tubes, and ovarian reserve. Options range from treating a correctable cause, to IUI when the numbers are suitable, to ICSI when count or motility is severely reduced. Morphology by itself rarely decides IVF. Read the plan on the male infertility page, and bring the full PDF, not only a screenshot of one line.
Azoospermia, which means no sperm in the ejaculate, needs a separate urology and hormone review. It is not interpreted the same way as a mildly low count.
Common questions
What sperm count is used as a reference?
The WHO 6th edition lower reference limit for concentration is 16 million sperm per millilitre, and 39 million sperm in the whole sample. Results below this need a repeat test and a clinical review.
Does low morphology mean IVF is required?
No. Strict morphology is read together with count, motility, the partner’s tests, and how long you have been trying.
How many semen tests are usually done?
If the first test is abnormal, it is commonly repeated before a male-factor diagnosis is made, because results vary.
Where can a semen report be reviewed in Hyderabad?
Dr. Sravya Buggana reviews semen reports as part of couple evaluation at Alkapur Township, Manikonda, Hyderabad. Call +91 72070 12924.
Related pages
This page is general education for patients in Hyderabad. It is not a diagnosis, a promise of pregnancy, or a personal treatment plan. Decisions about IUI, IVF, medicines, or fertility preservation are made in a consultation. For care with Dr. Sravya Buggana, call +91 72070 12924.