Health Conditions

For men who may be infertile, a laboratory test known as a semen analysis (often called a sperm count) is performed on the thick, white liquid that is ejected during sex. After refraining from having sex for 2 to 7 days, the man provides a sample of his semen for testing. Non-prescription home semen-testing kits are available. If sperm testing is done in a laboratory, the sample must be delivered as soon as possible after it is collected (usually within 2 hours). Characteristics such as amount, acidity, and nutrient content of the semen are evaluated. It is also checked for white blood cells that could indicate an infection. In addition, the number, size, shape, movement, and survival time of the sperm contained in the sample are tested. Usually, a second semen analysis is done after a few weeks. If either analysis shows abnormal semen or sperm, the man may need further testing.

Occasionally, postcoital (after sexual intercourse) semen testing may be performed. By examining the woman's cervical mucus after she has had sexual intercourse, a physician may be able to determine the quality of the man?s semen, as well as the number of sperm and their ability to move in the mucus. Postcoital testing has fallen out of favor because it is awkward to do and it may not be as reliable as other types of tests.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.