English key-point edition · Content updated 2026-10-12
This guide summarizes the main points of our Chinese article. Confirm your personal test preparation and treatment instructions with the clinical team.
What to discuss at your first visit
Bring information about how long you have been trying, previous pregnancies with a partner, testicular or groin surgery, undescended testes, infections, cancer treatment and current medicines. Mention recent fever, difficulty collecting a sample, and erection or ejaculation concerns. Findings may lead to referral to a urologist or male fertility specialist.
Understanding semen analysis
The test looks at semen volume, sperm concentration and total count, movement and shape. The percentage of normally shaped sperm is not a measure of a baby's risk of birth defects. Collection conditions and health can affect results. An abnormal result may need repeating, and results within the reference range do not guarantee pregnancy.
Preparing your sample
A laboratory commonly requests 2–7 days without ejaculation, but follow your own laboratory's instructions. Confirm the container, collection location and delivery deadline. Do not use ordinary lubricants or condoms unless approved. Tell staff if any sample was lost, and record the collection time and abstinence period. Check separately whether any blood tests that day require fasting.
When are additional tests useful?
Hormone tests, genetic tests, sperm DNA fragmentation testing and imaging are not routine requirements for everyone. The reason may depend on your history, semen findings, recurrent pregnancy loss or particular treatment circumstances. Ask how the result would change your care.
Planning the next step
Options may include repeat testing, treating an identifiable condition, lifestyle changes, insemination, IVF or ICSI. Testosterone and anabolic steroids can suppress sperm production. Do not start or stop prescribed treatment on your own; discuss your fertility plans with the prescribing doctor. If cancer treatment is planned, ask promptly about sperm freezing without delaying treatment yourself.
Sources
This guide provides general information. Your symptoms, test results and treatment plan require individual clinical assessment.
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