MLT GlobeSemen analysis
Semen & Infertility · also called Seminal fluid analysis, SFA
What it measures
Assesses volume, sperm concentration, motility, morphology and vitality of an ejaculate. It is the first test of male fertility and confirms success of vasectomy.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Semen by masturbation into a sterile wide-mouthed container
- Tube: Semen top
- Preparation: 2–7 days of sexual abstinence; collect at the lab or deliver within 1 hour at body temperature; avoid condoms and lubricants.
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| Volume | ≥ 1.4 mL |
| Sperm concentration | ≥ 16 million/mL |
| Total sperm number | ≥ 39 million per ejaculate |
| Total motility (PR+NP) | ≥ 42 % |
| Progressive motility | ≥ 30 % |
| Vitality | ≥ 54 % live |
| Normal forms | ≥ 4 % |
| pH | ≥ 7.2 |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Increased leukocytes (> 1 million/mL): genital tract infection
- Very high sperm count (polyzoospermia) is rare and of uncertain significance
- High pH (> 8.0): infection of accessory glands
Causes of low values
- Oligozoospermia/azoospermia: testicular failure, obstruction, varicocele
- Asthenozoospermia: poor motility
- Teratozoospermia: abnormal morphology
- Low volume: incomplete collection, ejaculatory duct obstruction, retrograde ejaculation
Method
Macroscopic and microscopic examination per WHO 2021 manual; CASA where available
Good to know
WHO 2021 values are 5th-centile lower reference limits, not fertility cut-offs; repeat an abnormal result after about 3 months.
Related tests
📱 Practise with a timer, track your score and earn certificates in the free MLT Globe app – Google Play or practise online.