For couples in Singapore who are planning to start a family, understanding their fertility is an important first step. Fertility assessments may be done for ease of mind prior to marriage for instance, or when difficulties in conceiving arise. One of the most common investigations for men is a semen analysis. This simple yet informative assessment provides valuable insights into male reproductive health and can guide treatment decisions.
What Is A Semen Analysis?
A semen analysis is a laboratory test that examines a man’s semen under a microscope to evaluate sperm quantity and quality. It looks at several key factors:
- Sperm Concentration – The number of sperm present in one millilitre of semen.
- Sperm Motility – How well the sperm move, as good motility is required for fertilisation.
- Sperm Morphology – The shape and structure of the sperm, which can affect their ability to penetrate an egg.
- Semen Volume, Viscosity and pH – Overall semen characteristics that may influence fertility.
By assessing these parameters, the test can help determine whether sperm health is within a range that supports natural conception.
If you’re just interested to know about your sperm health and wellness, you can learn more about our Male Wellness Semen Check.
How Does A Semen Analysis Work?
The process is straightforward. Patients are required to provide a semen sample through masturbation into a sterile container at our clinic. To ensure accuracy, the patients are advised to clear their “old” semen and then abstain from ejaculation for 3-4 days before the test.
The sample is then examined by our trained medical technologists in Sincere Andrology Laboratory who will conduct initial assessment of the sample’s appearance, colour and consistency. The sample is then placed in an incubator to liquefy, and its pH is measured. The medical technologist will examine using a microscope to assess the sperms concentration, motility and morphology.
What Conditions Can A Semen Analysis Help Detect?
A semen analysis does not treat conditions, but it plays a key role in identifying possible causes of infertility. Some of the issues it can help reveal include:
- Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia) – Insufficient numbers of sperm in semen.
- Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenozoospermia) – Sperm that do not swim effectively.
- Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia) – High proportion of irregularly shaped sperm.
- Azoospermia – Complete absence of sperm in semen.
- Infections or Blockages – Detected through abnormal pH levels or presence of white blood cells.
Identifying these conditions enables doctors to recommend further investigations or suitable fertility treatments.
Explore: Sincere Advanced Fertility Treatment
Who Is Suitable For A Semen Analysis?
A semen analysis is generally recommended for:
- Couples who have been trying to conceive without success for 12 months (or 6 months if the woman is over 35) and may also be considering an IVF Programme.
- Men with a history of testicular injury, surgery, or conditions such as varicocele.
- Men who have had previous infections affecting the reproductive tract.
- Men considering fertility preservation before cancer treatment or certain surgeries.
Who May Not Be Suitable?
There are few restrictions on who might not be suitable for a semen analysis, but certain situations may affect test accuracy. For example, men who have had fever, illness, or recent ejaculation may be advised to wait before undergoing the test. It may also not be suitable for those unable to produce a sample through masturbation due to cultural, religious, or personal reasons, though alternatives such as special condoms or testicular sperm extraction may be discussed with a doctor.
Why A Semen Analysis Matters
Semen analysis is one of the first steps in assessing male fertility. By identifying potential problems, it allows couples to explore appropriate treatments such as lifestyle changes, medication, or assisted reproductive techniques.
For many couples, having clear information about sperm health provides reassurance and a foundation for the next steps in their fertility journey.
“Many couples feel anxious when trying to conceive. A semen analysis can provide reassurance by showing whether sperm health is within a range that supports natural conception.”
– Dr Chen Nai Qing, Scientific Director and Chief Embryologist
Other Sperm Tests Might Be Needed
While it’s a helpful first step, a semen analysis may not detect deeper problems.
Research proves that about 15% of men with fertility issues may have normal semen results. That’s why an Andrologist or Fertility Specialist may recommend additional sperm tests to look at:
- Sperm DNA fragmentation – checks for any genetic damages or defects
- Hyaluronan-binding ability – shows sperm maturity
- Oxidative stress levels – checks for harmful sperm damage
These tests are quick, non-invasive, and can often be done together using the same semen sample for a Semen Analysis at Sincere Andrology Laboratory.
It is highly recommended that these additional tests are included when couples face:
- unexplained infertility
- multiple IUI or IVF cycle failures
- history of recurrent miscarriage
It is also helpful when a couple wants to start or grow their family to do a Couple Fertility Screening Test that included these additional sperm tests as well. This forms a baseline for you to know your reproductive health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Results a Semen Analysis will be available in the next working day and will be shared with you during the doctor consultation.
Yes. Factors such as smoking, alcohol, obesity, stress, and lack of sleep can influence sperm quality. Doctors may advise lifestyle changes before repeating the test.
Not always. Because sperm production can vary, doctors may recommend two or more analyses, performed a few weeks apart, to ensure accurate results.
Get An Appointment To Get Checked
A semen analysis is a simple, safe, and highly informative test that sheds light on male fertility. For couples facing difficulties with conception in Singapore, it can be a crucial step in identifying possible causes and guiding treatment options. If you have concerns about fertility, speaking to a qualified doctor can help you understand whether a semen analysis is right for you.
