Semen Analysis: Is 1.0ml Volume a Concern for Fertility?

Semen volume 1.0 ml

Hello, I would like to inquire about a pre-conception semen analysis report: Volume 1.0 ml, Sperm Count 120 x 10^6/ml, Motility: Active 40%, Normal Morphology 70%, WBC 0-2/HPF.
The normal value for Volume should be >= 2 ml, and Normal Morphology should be > 80%.
Will this affect fertility? Is it necessary to see a urologist for further evaluation? Thank you!

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/06

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

You can visit a urologist to check for varicocele, although the values are not too concerning.

Reply Date: 2016/04/06

More Info

When interpreting semen analysis results, several parameters are crucial in assessing male fertility. In your case, the semen analysis shows a volume of 1.0 ml, a sperm count of 120 million/ml, 40% motility, and 70% normal morphology. Let's break down these results and their implications for fertility.

Semen Volume
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a normal semen volume as being greater than or equal to 2.0 ml. Your result of 1.0 ml is below this threshold, which can be a concern. Low semen volume can indicate issues such as hormonal imbalances, anatomical blockages, or problems with the seminal vesicles or prostate. A lower volume may also mean fewer sperm are available to reach and fertilize an egg, potentially impacting fertility.

Sperm Count
Your sperm count of 120 million/ml is well above the normal threshold of 15 million/ml, which is considered sufficient for fertility. This is a positive aspect of your analysis, as a higher sperm count increases the chances of successful fertilization.

Motility
Motility refers to the percentage of sperm that are moving actively. A motility rate of 40% is slightly below the WHO's recommended minimum of 50% for normal fertility. While this is not drastically low, it may still affect the likelihood of sperm reaching the egg, especially if combined with other factors like low volume.

Normal Morphology
Normal morphology indicates the percentage of sperm that have a normal shape. Your result of 70% is below the recommended threshold of 80%. Abnormal morphology can hinder the sperm's ability to penetrate the egg, which can also impact fertility.

White Blood Cells (WBC)
The presence of 0-2 WBCs per high power field (HPF) is generally considered normal and suggests that there is no significant infection or inflammation in the semen.

Overall Assessment
In summary, while your sperm count is excellent, the low volume and slightly suboptimal motility and morphology could pose challenges to fertility. The combination of these factors means that while conception is still possible, it may be more difficult than for someone with all parameters within the normal range.

Recommendations
Given these results, it would be wise to consult a urologist or a fertility specialist for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests to investigate the cause of the low volume and assess any potential underlying issues, such as hormonal evaluations or imaging studies to check for anatomical problems.
Additionally, lifestyle factors can also play a significant role in male fertility. Factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins can negatively affect sperm quality. Therefore, adopting a healthier lifestyle may also improve your fertility prospects.

In conclusion, while your sperm count is promising, the low volume and morphology could be areas of concern. Seeking further medical advice will provide you with a clearer understanding of your fertility status and potential next steps.

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