Understanding Sperm Count, Motility, Morphology and Male Fertility – Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi

Saira Health Care Releases an Educational Video to Help Men Understand Semen Analysis Reports, Normal Sperm Parameters, Causes of Abnormal Results and the Importance of Early Male Infertility Evaluation

Published: 9 October 2026
Category: Male Infertility | Reproductive Health | Health Awareness
By: Saira Health Care Medical Education Team

Saira Health Care Introduces a Comprehensive Educational Video on Semen Analysis

Saira Health Care, under the guidance of Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi, Founder and Chief Physician, continues its commitment to improving public awareness about sexual disorders, reproductive health and infertility through evidence-informed medical education.

As part of this initiative, Saira Health Care has released an educational video focusing on Semen Analysis, one of the most important laboratory investigations used in the evaluation of male fertility.

The video is intended to help patients understand the purpose of semen analysis, the meaning of important sperm parameters, and why proper interpretation of a semen report is essential before making decisions about infertility treatment.

Millions of couples worldwide experience difficulties achieving pregnancy. Although infertility is frequently associated with female reproductive problems in public discussions, male reproductive factors are equally important in a couple's fertility evaluation.

Semen analysis provides valuable information about sperm production, sperm concentration, sperm movement, sperm structure and other characteristics of seminal fluid.

However, many patients find semen analysis reports confusing, especially when unfamiliar medical terms or numbers appear outside laboratory reference ranges.

Through this educational initiative, Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi aims to encourage informed decision-making, appropriate medical assessment and greater awareness of male reproductive health.

Watch Our Educational Video: Semen Analysis Explained

Video Title: Semen Analysis Explained | Normal Sperm Count, Motility & Morphology | Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi

Watch the Complete Video:
https://youtu.be/-jpu5WNjMmw

What Is Semen Analysis?

Semen analysis, also called a semen examination or sperm test, is a laboratory investigation that evaluates the quantity and characteristics of semen and sperm.

Semen is the fluid released during ejaculation. It contains sperm cells produced by the testes, along with secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland and other parts of the male reproductive system.

Sperm cells carry the male genetic material required for fertilization of an egg.

For successful natural fertilization, sperm must be produced, transported and released through the reproductive tract. They must also be capable of reaching and interacting with the egg.

Semen analysis helps healthcare professionals assess several of these important reproductive functions.

A standard semen analysis generally examines:

• Semen volume
• Sperm concentration
• Total sperm number
• Sperm motility
• Progressive sperm motility
• Sperm morphology
• Sperm vitality when indicated
• Semen pH
• Semen liquefaction and viscosity
• Additional findings such as inflammatory cells when appropriate

These parameters provide an initial picture of male reproductive health, but they must be considered together rather than interpreted independently.

Importantly, a semen analysis cannot establish fertility or infertility with absolute certainty. Some men with results below reference values may achieve pregnancy naturally, while others with apparently normal reports may still experience fertility difficulties.

Why Is Semen Analysis Important for Male Infertility?

Male infertility can result from several conditions affecting sperm production, reproductive hormones, sperm transportation, ejaculation or sperm function.

Semen analysis is often one of the first investigations recommended when a couple experiences difficulty conceiving.

It may help identify:

1. Reduced sperm production: The testes may produce fewer sperm than expected.

2. Abnormal sperm movement: Sperm may have difficulty moving efficiently through the female reproductive tract.

3. Changes in sperm structure: A lower proportion of sperm may have a normal shape.

4. Absence of sperm in semen: This may indicate a problem with sperm production or an obstruction in the reproductive tract.

5. Other seminal abnormalities: Changes in semen volume, pH or other characteristics may suggest the need for further investigation.

An abnormal semen analysis may prompt evaluation for potentially treatable causes and help clinicians determine whether additional investigations are necessary.

Medical assessment of both partners is important because infertility can involve male factors, female factors or a combination of both.

Understanding Normal Semen Analysis Values According to WHO Guidelines

The World Health Organization's Sixth Edition Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, published in 2021, provides internationally recognized laboratory methods and reference distributions.

The updated NICE fertility guideline, published in March 2026, also incorporates these reference values.

Important Semen Analysis Reference Values

Important: These figures represent lower reference values derived from a population of men whose partners achieved natural conception within 12 months. They are not absolute thresholds separating fertile men from infertile men.

Laboratory methods, clinical circumstances and the complete semen profile must be considered when interpreting results.

1. Sperm Count and Sperm Concentration

Sperm concentration refers to the number of sperm present in each millilitre of semen.

Total sperm number refers to the total number of sperm present in the entire ejaculate.

These two measurements are related but are not identical.

For example, if a semen sample contains 20 million sperm per millilitre and the semen volume is 3 millilitres, the total sperm number is approximately 60 million.

A reduced sperm concentration is commonly referred to as oligozoospermia.

Low sperm concentration may be associated with hormonal problems, varicocele, genetic abnormalities, previous infections, certain medications or other medical conditions.

However, a reduced sperm count does not automatically mean that natural pregnancy is impossible.

2. Sperm Motility – Understanding Sperm Movement

Sperm motility describes the ability of sperm cells to move.

Movement is important because sperm must travel through the female reproductive tract to reach the egg.

Laboratories generally classify sperm movement into progressive, non-progressive and immotile categories.

Progressive motility means sperm move forward, either in a straight line or along a broad curved path.

Non-progressive motility means sperm move without making meaningful forward progress.

Immotile sperm do not demonstrate movement.

Reduced sperm motility is commonly called asthenozoospermia.

Poor motility may be associated with varicocele, infections, oxidative stress, sperm structural abnormalities or other underlying conditions.

Treatment decisions depend on the underlying cause and the couple's complete fertility assessment.

3. Sperm Morphology – Why Sperm Shape Matters

Sperm morphology refers to the microscopic appearance and structure of sperm cells.

A typical sperm has a head, a midpiece and a tail.

During laboratory analysis, sperm are examined to determine what proportion meet standardized morphological criteria.

The WHO lower reference value for normal sperm morphology is approximately 4% when assessed using strict criteria.

This is frequently misunderstood.

A report showing 4% normal morphology does not mean that 96% of sperm are completely non-functional or that pregnancy cannot occur.

Morphology is only one part of semen assessment.

A reduced proportion of morphologically normal sperm is referred to as teratozoospermia.

The clinical significance depends on the complete semen profile, the particular abnormalities observed and other reproductive factors.

4. Semen Volume

Semen volume is the total quantity of fluid produced during ejaculation.

Low semen volume may occur because of incomplete sample collection, short abstinence intervals, ejaculation-related disorders or certain reproductive tract abnormalities.

Occasionally, it may indicate a problem involving the seminal vesicles or ejaculatory ducts.

The WHO 2021 lower reference value is approximately 1.4 mL.

A low result should be evaluated in the context of the collection method, other semen parameters and the patient's clinical history.

5. Sperm Vitality

Sperm vitality indicates the percentage of sperm cells that are alive.

This measurement is particularly helpful when a large proportion of sperm are immotile.

An immotile sperm cell is not necessarily dead.

Specialized laboratory techniques may be required to distinguish living but immotile sperm from non-viable sperm.

The lower reference value for sperm vitality in the WHO Sixth Edition is approximately 54%.

6. Semen pH, Liquefaction and Viscosity

Semen pH indicates the acidity or alkalinity of seminal fluid.

Liquefaction describes the process by which semen changes from a relatively thick consistency to a more liquid state after ejaculation.

Viscosity refers to the thickness and flow characteristics of semen.

Abnormalities in these parameters may provide additional information about the reproductive tract.

However, they do not independently confirm a specific disease and should be interpreted with other clinical findings.

Common Abnormalities Found in Semen Analysis Reports

Patients often become concerned when unfamiliar medical terminology appears in their laboratory reports.

Understanding the meaning of these terms can reduce confusion.

Oligozoospermia – Low Sperm Count

Oligozoospermia means that sperm concentration is below the laboratory's applicable reference threshold.

The severity and possible causes require individual evaluation.

Asthenozoospermia – Reduced Sperm Motility

Asthenozoospermia refers to sperm movement below the relevant reference value.

The condition may occur alone or alongside other sperm abnormalities.

Teratozoospermia – Abnormal Sperm Morphology

Teratozoospermia refers to a lower proportion of sperm with normal morphology.

A diagnosis should not be based on morphology alone without considering the complete clinical picture.

Azoospermia – Absence of Sperm in Semen

Azoospermia means that no sperm are identified in the ejaculate, including after appropriate laboratory examination of the concentrated semen sample.

It can occur because of impaired sperm production or an obstruction preventing sperm from entering the semen.

It requires further medical evaluation.

Azoospermia does not always mean that biological parenthood is impossible. In selected cases, treatment of the cause or specialized sperm retrieval techniques may provide options.

Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT)

This term describes a combination of reduced sperm concentration, reduced motility and reduced normal morphology.

When multiple semen parameters are significantly abnormal, the likelihood of impaired fertility may be greater.

These cases often require a more detailed reproductive evaluation.

What Causes an Abnormal Semen Analysis?

An abnormal semen analysis may have one or several contributing factors.

Possible causes include:

Varicocele: Enlargement of veins within the scrotum, which may affect testicular function and sperm quality.

Hormonal abnormalities: Problems involving testosterone, FSH, LH or other hormones involved in sperm production.

Genetic conditions: Certain chromosomal or genetic abnormalities can impair sperm production.

Infections and inflammation: Some conditions affecting the reproductive tract may influence semen parameters.

Previous testicular injury or surgery: Trauma, undescended testes or some surgical procedures may affect reproductive function.

Medication-related effects: Testosterone therapy, anabolic steroids, chemotherapy and certain other medications can reduce sperm production.

Lifestyle and environmental factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, certain occupational exposures and some other modifiable factors may influence reproductive health.

Recent fever or significant illness: Temporary changes in semen parameters may occur following episodes of elevated body temperature or serious illness.

In some patients, the exact cause remains unexplained even after appropriate investigation.

Correct identification of the cause is essential because different abnormalities require different approaches.

How Should Patients Prepare for a Semen Analysis Test?

Proper sample collection is essential for reliable laboratory results.

The WHO semen examination manual generally recommends an abstinence period of 2–7 days before sample collection.

Patients should follow their laboratory's specific instructions.

Important precautions include:

1. Collect the sample in the sterile or laboratory-approved container provided.
2. Avoid ordinary lubricants and spermicidal products unless specifically approved for semen testing.
3. Collect the complete ejaculate whenever possible.
4. Inform the laboratory if any part of the sample is lost.
5. Record the time of collection accurately.
6. Follow instructions for transportation and temperature control if collection occurs outside the laboratory.

Ideally, laboratory assessment should begin promptly after collection, generally within 30–60 minutes under appropriate conditions.

Incorrect collection or delayed transportation can affect certain results, particularly sperm motility.

Does a Semen Analysis Need to Be Repeated?

Yes, when clinically indicated.

Semen characteristics can change naturally between ejaculates and may be influenced by illness, abstinence duration and other temporary factors.

Therefore, one abnormal report may not accurately represent a man's usual reproductive status.

Repeat testing is commonly recommended to confirm abnormal findings.

The updated NICE 2026 guideline generally recommends a repeat confirmatory semen analysis around three months after an abnormal initial test, allowing time for a new cycle of sperm production.

However, where azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia is detected, confirmatory testing should be arranged promptly rather than delaying evaluation unnecessarily.

The appropriate timing should be determined by the treating clinician.

Why Semen Analysis Alone Cannot Confirm Male Fertility

One of the most important messages for patients is that semen analysis provides information about reproductive potential, not an absolute prediction of whether pregnancy will occur.

Natural conception depends on several factors, including:

• Sperm production and function
• Ovulation
• Female reproductive age
• Fallopian tube health
• Timing and frequency of intercourse
• Duration of infertility
• General reproductive health of both partners

A man may have semen parameters within reference limits and still experience infertility.

Similarly, some men with mildly abnormal reports may achieve pregnancy without assisted reproductive treatment.

For this reason, a semen report should always be interpreted in the context of the couple's complete reproductive history.

When Should a Man Seek Medical Advice?

Professional evaluation is advisable when:

• A couple has been trying to conceive for 12 months without success, or earlier when risk factors are present.
• The female partner is aged 35 years or older and conception has not occurred after approximately six months of trying.
• A semen report shows azoospermia or very low sperm concentration.
• Repeated semen analyses demonstrate abnormal findings.
• There is a history of undescended testes, testicular surgery or significant genital infection.
• A man has persistent testicular pain, swelling or a suspected varicocele.
• There are symptoms suggesting a hormonal or ejaculation-related disorder.

A specialist assessment may include medical history, physical examination, hormonal investigations, scrotal ultrasound when indicated and selected genetic tests.

Not every patient requires every investigation.

The objective is to identify the cause and establish a medically appropriate management plan.

Can Semen Parameters Improve With Treatment?

Some causes of abnormal semen parameters are treatable, while others are more complex.

The possibility of improvement depends on the diagnosis.

For example, management may involve correcting an identified hormonal disorder, treating a confirmed infection, considering intervention for selected cases of varicocele, or addressing medication-related suppression of sperm production.

Where natural conception is unlikely, assisted reproductive techniques such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be considered based on specialist recommendations.

Lifestyle measures may also support general reproductive health.

These include stopping smoking, avoiding anabolic steroids, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, obtaining adequate sleep and eating a balanced diet.

However, no food, supplement or medicine can guarantee improvement in sperm count, motility or fertility.

Patients should avoid self-medicating after receiving an abnormal laboratory report.

Unani Medicine and Supportive Male Reproductive Healthcare

Unani medicine is a traditional system of healthcare with a longstanding history in India and other parts of the world.

It places emphasis on individualized assessment, dietary habits, general health, lifestyle and the traditional use of herbal preparations.

At Saira Health Care, the principles of Unani medicine form part of the clinic's approach to patient counselling and supportive healthcare.

In male reproductive health, attention may be given to nutritional status, general wellbeing, lifestyle factors and selected traditional therapeutic approaches when clinically appropriate.

However, the effectiveness and safety of individual Unani preparations for improving sperm parameters or achieving pregnancy vary, and high-quality clinical evidence remains limited for many traditional treatments.

Unani medicines should not be presented as a universal cure for male infertility or as substitutes for indicated hormonal, genetic, surgical or reproductive investigations.

The use of any herbal or traditional medicine should be individualized and reviewed for potential safety concerns, interactions and product quality.

At Saira Health Care, the importance of identifying the underlying cause of abnormal semen parameters remains central to responsible patient care.

Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi's Contribution to Male Reproductive Health Awareness

Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi, Founder and Chief Physician of Saira Health Care, focuses his clinical practice and educational efforts on sexual disorders, male reproductive health and infertility-related concerns.

Through Saira Health Care's website, educational articles, video presentations and digital communication channels, he aims to help patients understand sensitive medical conditions in clear, accessible language.

Educational discussions on semen analysis, azoospermia, varicocele, low testosterone and other male reproductive conditions can encourage patients to seek timely medical attention rather than relying on misinformation or unverified treatments.

About Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi

Founder & Chief Physician – Saira Health Care
Focused Practice in Sexual Disorders & Infertility

Academic Qualifications and Additional Training:

• BUMS – Hamdard University, Delhi
• MD
• CGO
• Certificate in Infertility – MGBIMS, Delhi
• Certificate in Urology – London, United Kingdom
• Masters in Male Infertility – Healthpro
• Integrated Sexual & Reproductive Health – UNFPA

His professional interests include male sexual health, infertility assessment, reproductive health education and individualized patient care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Semen Analysis

1. What is the normal sperm count for pregnancy?

The WHO Sixth Edition lower reference value for sperm concentration is approximately 16 million per millilitre, with a total sperm number of about 39 million per ejaculate.

However, these figures do not represent guaranteed fertility thresholds.

2. Can a man with low sperm count become a father?

Yes, in some cases. The possibility depends on the degree of sperm reduction, associated abnormalities, underlying causes and the reproductive health of both partners.

3. What does 0% sperm motility mean?

It means that no sperm movement was observed in the tested sample. Further evaluation, including sperm vitality testing and repeat semen analysis, may be necessary.

4. Is 4% sperm morphology normal?

Four percent normal forms is the WHO Sixth Edition lower reference value when strict morphological criteria are used. It should be interpreted alongside other semen parameters.

5. Can semen analysis results change over time?

Yes. Semen parameters can vary between samples because of biological variation, recent illness, collection conditions, medications and other factors.

6. Is fasting required before a semen analysis?

Fasting is generally not required for a routine semen analysis. Patients should follow the laboratory's collection instructions.

7. Can stress affect male fertility?

Stress may influence sexual function, overall health and certain reproductive processes. However, an abnormal semen report should not automatically be attributed to stress without proper evaluation.

8. Is semen analysis painful?

No. It is a non-invasive laboratory examination of an ejaculated semen sample.

9. Can semen analysis detect every cause of infertility?

No. It is an important initial investigation, but some fertility problems require further medical or laboratory assessment.

10. Should both partners undergo fertility evaluation?

Yes. Evaluation of both partners is important because fertility difficulties may involve either partner or a combination of factors.

Saira Health Care Encourages Responsible Male Fertility Awareness

Male reproductive health remains an important subject that many individuals hesitate to discuss openly.

Social stigma, misinformation and unrealistic treatment claims can discourage patients from seeking timely medical advice.

Saira Health Care believes that access to understandable, medically responsible educational information can help patients make better healthcare decisions.

The new semen analysis educational video is part of the clinic's continuing initiative to increase public awareness about male infertility investigations and sexual and reproductive health.

By discussing sperm count, motility, morphology and other laboratory parameters, this initiative seeks to help viewers become more informed about their reproductive health.

Watch the Complete Educational Video

Semen Analysis Explained – Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi

https://youtu.be/-jpu5WNjMmw

Viewers are encouraged to watch the video, share it with people who may find the information useful, and subscribe to the Saira Health Care YouTube channel for future educational content.

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Conclusion: Understanding Your Semen Analysis Is the First Step Toward Informed Fertility Care

Semen analysis is one of the most valuable initial investigations in male infertility assessment. It provides essential information about sperm concentration, total sperm number, sperm movement, sperm morphology and other characteristics of semen.

However, understanding the results requires more than comparing individual numbers with reference ranges.

An accurate interpretation considers the complete semen profile, sample collection conditions, medical history, physical findings and the reproductive health of both partners.

Through this educational video, Dr. Nizamuddin Qasmi and Saira Health Care aim to encourage greater public understanding of semen analysis, early medical consultation and responsible treatment decisions.

An abnormal semen analysis is a reason for further evaluation—not a reason to lose hope or begin unverified treatment.

Saira Health Care – Dedicated to Sexual & Reproductive Health Awareness.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as an individualized diagnosis, treatment recommendation or substitute for professional medical consultation. Laboratory results must be interpreted by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Treatment choices, including traditional or herbal medicines, should be based on individual clinical assessment and available scientific evidence.