Male Factor

• Sperm count. This form of male fertility testing aims to determine the man's sperm count. The normal range is between 15 and 300 million sperm per milliliter of ejaculate. A low sperm count is fewer than 20 million per milliliter of ejaculate.
• Motility. Low sperm motility (slow moving sperms) may reduce the chances of conception,especially when coupled with low sperm count. In a normal semen sample, at least 40% of the sperm should have typical movement.
• Morphology. Sperm with abnormal morphology (shape) are often unable to move effectively and/or penetrate an egg. A normal sperm has an oval head, slim midsection and tail that with a wave-like activity.

To assess the count, motility and shape of sperm, a semen sample should be provided. The sample is collected by masturbation in a private, comfortable room in one of our offices without any lubricant to prevent damage to the sperm. Alternatively, the sample may be collected at home by masturbation or during intercourse with the use of a special condom provided by RMA of Texas. Occasionally, the test results are not normal due to problems during sample collection and the test should be repeated.
If the semen analysis is abnormal, more male fertility testing could be ordered to diagnose specific causes of infertility. If the semen analysis demonstrates signs of infection, then a semen culture, prostate fluid culture and urinalysis may be ordered.  A referral to a fertility urologist may be recommended. Contact our any of our fetility clinics for more information on obtaining fertility testing for men.

Cumulative and life table pregnancy rates in couples with varying sperm counts