Ampath Diagnostic Guide | Pathology solutions are in our DNA
When Should Male Fertility Testing Be Considered?
If a couple is unable to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse, a spermiogram (semen analysis) is recommended.
Several male-related factors may cause or contribute to infertility.
What is a Spermiogram (Semen Analysis)?
A spermiogram is a series of tests used to evaluate male fertility. These tests provide critical information that influences the ability to fall pregnant.
A semen analysis includes:
- Volume of the semen specimen
- Sperm count (amount of sperm)
- Sperm motility (movement over time, up to 8 hours)
- Sperm morphology (shape and structure)
- Additional tests, such as sperm antibody testing
👉 The results help guide future family planning or fertility treatment decisions.
Instructions for Providing a Semen Specimen
Follow these steps carefully to ensure an accurate analysis:
- Abstain from sexual intercourse or ejaculation for 3 days
- Avoid abstaining for more than 7 days, as it may affect sperm quality.
- Produce the semen specimen at the laboratory, if possible
- Time delays and temperature fluctuations can alter results significantly.
- If produced at home:
- Deliver to an Ampath facility within 1 hour
- Keep at body temperature during transport (e.g. under the arm)
- Before collection:
- Pass urine
- Wash hands with soap and water
- Rinse and dry thoroughly
- Use a sterile container provided by Ampath
- Available at the laboratory or any Ampath Care Centre
- Collect the specimen by masturbation, ensuring the entire sample is captured in the container.
- Do not use ordinary condoms or lubricants
- These may contain spermicides that can compromise the results
- A special condom (spermicide-free) is available for purchase at the lab
- The specimen will be tested for up to 8 hours after production to monitor motility and other characteristics.
- A blood sample (1 tube) will also be collected to check for sperm antibodies.
- Results will be available within 1 week and sent to the referring doctor.
⚠️ Any deviation from these instructions may render the analysis inaccurate. All information is treated confidentially.
What to Do Now
- The spermiogram test is available on both a self-referral or doctor-referral basis
- Schedule your appointment at an Ampath Care Centre offering andrology services
- Find a facility near you on the Ampath website under Andrology
Things to Remember
- Your test results are available through the Ampath App
- Certain results may require your doctor's explanation before appearing in the app
📧 Questions? Email: andrology@ampath.co.za
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