Semen Analysis#

Semen analysis for fertility testing and post-vasectomy clearance. Lab collection rules, preparation, interpretation, and how TeleTest helps.

Semen analysis is the standard first-line test for the male partner in a fertility workup, and it is also the test used to confirm a vasectomy worked. The sample is highly time- and temperature-sensitive, so following the lab's collection and drop-off rules exactly matters.

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What semen analysis measures#

A standard semen analysis reports several values. The World Health Organization (WHO) reference ranges (2021, 6th edition) are commonly used by Canadian labs. Reference ranges are based on people who fathered a child within 12 months; results below the reference are not the same as "infertile" - they only indicate reduced likelihood per cycle.

Measure What it is WHO 2021 lower reference limit
Volume Total amount of fluid 1.4 mL or more
Sperm concentration Sperm per mL 16 million per mL or more
Total count Sperm per ejaculate (volume x concentration) 39 million or more
Motility Percent of sperm that move (progressive + non-progressive) 42% total motility, 30% progressive
Morphology Percent of sperm with normal shape (strict) 4% or more
Vitality Percent of sperm that are alive 54% or more
pH Acidity / alkalinity 7.2 or higher
Round cells / leukocytes Cells other than sperm Under 1 million per mL
What does "morphology" mean and why is it so low (4%)?#

Morphology measures the percentage of sperm with a normal head, midpiece, and tail under strict ("Kruger") criteria. Normal sperm are visually rare - even in healthy fertile men, only 4-15% of sperm meet the strict criteria. This is normal; do not be alarmed by a 4-10% morphology if the count and motility are good.

What is azoospermia?#

Azoospermia means no sperm at all in the ejaculate. It can be obstructive (sperm production is normal but a blockage prevents sperm from reaching the ejaculate, as in vasectomy) or non-obstructive (sperm production itself is impaired). For someone who has had a vasectomy, azoospermia is the expected and desired result.

What is oligospermia?#

Oligospermia means a lower-than-expected number of sperm. Mild oligospermia is more common and often still allows natural conception, especially with the right timing. Severe oligospermia (very low counts) typically prompts a referral to a fertility specialist or urologist.

What is asthenozoospermia?#

Reduced sperm motility (movement). Often coexists with oligospermia. Treatment depends on the cause and severity.

What is teratozoospermia?#

Reduced normal morphology (shape). On its own, mild reductions in morphology are common and not necessarily an obstacle to conception.

Two types of semen analysis#

1. Fertility analysis#

Measures the full set of values above. Used when investigating possible fertility issues, planning pregnancy, or as part of a couples' workup.

  • Strict collection rules: sample must reach the lab within 1 hour of collection and be kept close to body temperature during transport.
  • Limited locations: not every lab branch handles fertility analysis. You usually need to call ahead and book a drop-off time.

2. Post-vasectomy analysis#

Measures only sperm presence and motility. Used to confirm a vasectomy has worked.

  • More lenient collection rules: sample can be at room temperature. Post-vasectomy samples are accepted at more locations than fertility semen analyses, but availability still varies. Always call ahead or follow the lab's booking instructions.
  • Timed for after vasectomy: typically done after at least 12 ejaculations and 8-16 weeks after the procedure.

See the Vasectomy page for what happens around the procedure itself.

Collection instructions (fertility)#

Before collection:

  1. Abstain for the period required by the lab. LifeLabs commonly instructs 48 hours to 7 days. Dynacare's post-vasectomy instructions list 3 days. Follow the instruction sheet from the lab processing your sample.
  2. Do not use lubricants, saliva, condoms, or any other product with the sample. Most lubricants and condoms damage sperm.
  3. Confirm a drop-off appointment at a participating lab. Specimens received without an appointment are typically rejected. Lab phone numbers below.

At collection:

  1. Use only the container provided by the lab. Other containers will be rejected.
  2. Collect by masturbation, directly into the container. Masturbation is the only acceptable collection method for fertility analysis.
  3. Collect the entire ejaculate. If any is lost, discard the sample and try again on another day with a new kit.
  4. Seal the container tightly.
  5. Label the container clearly with full name and date of birth (or health card number).

Transport:

  1. Keep the sample at body temperature by carrying it close to your body (in a pocket against the skin, or under clothing). Do not refrigerate. Do not place in a hot car.
  2. Deliver to the lab within 1 hour of collection.
  3. Bring the TeleTest lab requisition with you.

Do not present a second requisition from another clinic in the same visit. The lab may merge them and route results to the wrong clinician. Ask the lab tech to confirm no other clinician is being CC'd before the sample is processed.

What happens if it takes more than 1 hour to reach the lab?#

The sample will likely be rejected. Sperm motility drops rapidly outside the body, especially when not kept at body temperature. The lab will not run a fertility analysis on a stale sample because the result would be misleading.

Can I collect at home and drop off later?#

Yes, if you live within an hour of a participating lab. Most people collect at home and transport. Some labs have a private collection room on-site for an extra fee, which removes the time-pressure issue.

Can I use a sterile condom-style collection device?#

There are specific "Male Factor Pak" silicone collection condoms that are designed not to damage sperm. Standard latex or non-latex condoms damage sperm and cannot be used. If retrograde ejaculation or religious reasons make masturbation difficult, ask the lab about their accepted collection alternatives.

What if I cannot follow the abstinence window the lab specifies?#

The abstinence window matters. If you ejaculate too close to collection (less than the lab's minimum), the volume and count may be artificially low. If you wait too long beyond the lab's maximum, motility may drop. Reschedule the test if you are outside your lab's window.

Collection instructions (post-vasectomy)#

The rules are simpler than fertility analysis because the lab only needs to check whether any sperm are present.

Before collection:

  1. Wait at least 12 ejaculations and 8-16 weeks after your vasectomy before the first post-vasectomy sample.
  2. Abstain for the period your lab specifies. Dynacare's post-vasectomy instructions list 3 days; LifeLabs commonly instructs 48 hours to 7 days. Follow the lab's instruction sheet.
  3. Call ahead to confirm the lab branch accepts samples. Most do, but timing windows may apply.

At collection:

  1. Use only the container provided.
  2. Collect by masturbation directly into the container. No lubricants, condoms, or saliva.
  3. Collect the entire ejaculate.
  4. Seal and label with full name and date of birth.

Transport:

  1. Sample can be at room temperature.
  2. Deliver to the lab within the timeframe the lab specifies (often within a few hours).
  3. Bring the TeleTest requisition. Confirm with the lab tech that no other clinician is being CC'd on the result.
When do I do the first post-vasectomy semen analysis?#

Most surgeons recommend the first analysis at 12 weeks after the procedure AND after at least 12 ejaculations - whichever comes later. Sperm already in the system upstream of the surgical site take time to clear. Continue using another contraceptive method until your result confirms azoospermia.

What if my first post-vasectomy result shows a few non-moving sperm?#

This can be normal at the 12-week mark; residual non-motile sperm clear over time. Many guidelines accept fewer than 100,000 non-motile sperm per mL as a successful vasectomy. The surgeon may ask you to repeat the test 1-3 months later to confirm. Continue using another contraceptive method until cleared.

What if there are moving (motile) sperm in my post-vasectomy sample?#

Motile sperm at 12 weeks or later suggests the vasectomy did not fully work. You will need a repeat test in 4-8 weeks, and possibly a repeat vasectomy if persistent. Continue using another contraceptive method until cleared.

Interpretation#

Semen analysis results need to be read in context. A few principles:

  • One abnormal result is not enough to diagnose anything. Semen quality varies cycle-to-cycle. If a fertility analysis comes back abnormal, the test is usually repeated 4-6 weeks later to confirm.
  • Mild reductions in any single value (motility, morphology, count slightly low) are common and often compatible with natural conception.
  • Severe reductions or azoospermia in a fertility context warrant a urology or fertility-specialist evaluation.
  • Results outside the WHO reference range are not equivalent to "infertile" - they describe the lower end of fertile men in the WHO study cohort.
  • Lifestyle factors that can lower semen quality: heat (saunas, hot tubs, prolonged laptop on lap), smoking, heavy alcohol, anabolic steroid use, marijuana, obesity, certain medications, recent fever or illness, and stress. Many of these are modifiable.
How long does it take for lifestyle changes to show up in semen analysis?#

Sperm take about 72-90 days to mature. Lifestyle changes (quitting smoking, losing weight, stopping anabolic steroids) need at least 3 months before re-testing to see the effect.

Can recent illness or fever affect my result?#

Yes. A recent fever can suppress sperm production for weeks. If you were ill in the few weeks before the test and the result is abnormal, repeat the test about 3 months later.

What about anabolic steroids or testosterone-replacement therapy?#

Both can suppress natural sperm production substantially, sometimes to the point of azoospermia. Sperm production can take many months to recover after stopping, and recovery is not guaranteed. If you are planning fertility, banking sperm before starting any androgen therapy is strongly recommended. See the Testosterone page.

What is sperm DNA fragmentation testing?#

DNA fragmentation looks at the quality of the genetic material in the sperm head, not just count and motility. It is a specialized test, not typically included in a standard semen analysis. Some fertility clinics order it when standard parameters are normal but conception is not happening, when there has been recurrent miscarriage, or when IVF results are poor. TeleTest does not order DNA fragmentation testing directly; a fertility clinic is the right setting.

How TeleTest helps#

TeleTest can:

  • Order fertility semen analysis at participating Canadian labs
  • Order post-vasectomy semen analysis at most lab branches
  • Discuss results in plain language
  • Order broader male fertility workup as appropriate (FSH, LH, total testosterone, prolactin)
  • Refer to urology or a fertility specialist when results suggest one is needed

TeleTest does not:

  • Perform vasectomy (see the Vasectomy page for referral options)
  • Perform sperm banking or cryopreservation (fertility clinic)
  • Perform IUI or IVF (fertility clinic)
  • Perform genetic testing on sperm DNA (specialized lab or fertility clinic)
How long does the result take?#

Most semen analysis results are reported in 7-12 business days. Some FlowLabs and fertility-clinic-based locations are faster. The status updates in your TeleTest account once the lab sends results.

What does it cost?#

In most provinces, semen analysis ordered for an investigation of infertility is covered under the provincial health plan when performed at a hospital-based or partner lab. Post-vasectomy analysis is also generally covered. Some specialized labs (such as FlowLabs) charge a per-test fee. Your TeleTest requisition will indicate which labs accept provincial billing.

Where can I drop off in Ontario#

Not all labs accept fertility samples. The list below is for Ontario; call ahead to confirm. For provinces outside Ontario, contact a local fertility clinic; they can typically perform semen analysis using the TeleTest requisition.

Greater Toronto Area:

LifeLabs (fertility analysis):

  • Etobicoke - 100 International Blvd
  • Toronto - 85 The East Mall, Unit LF02
  • Mississauga - 3025 Hurontario St #503; 6560 Kennedy Rd
  • Woodbridge - 4600 Hwy 7 Suite 120
  • Brampton - 36 Vodden St E Unit 200

Dynacare:

  • Brampton - 10 Cottrelle Blvd #108

FlowLabs (online booking only - register at flowlabs.ca/locations):

  • Downtown Toronto - 790 Bay Street, Suite 935
  • Maple - 191 McNaughton Road East, Suite 402
  • Mississauga - Inside Reproductive Care Center, 2180 Meadowvale Blvd

Good Hope Laboratories:

  • Mississauga - 71 King St W, Unit 202 (Medical Arts Centre)

Eastern Ontario:

LifeLabs:

  • Belleville - 51 Adam St

FlowLabs:

  • Ottawa - 955 Green Valley Crescent, Unit 200
  • Kingston - Inside Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street
  • Oshawa - 65 Kenneth Ave

Southwestern Ontario:

LifeLabs:

  • Oakville - 575 River Glen Blvd

FlowLabs:

  • London - Inside CReATe Fertility London, 215 Fanshaw Park Road West, #104

Northern Ontario:

LifeLabs:

  • Sudbury - 65 Larch St
  • Thunder Bay - 1040 Oliver Rd #101

Important notes:

  • All locations require an appointment for fertility samples
  • Use the correct TeleTest requisition so results route back to us
  • If no participating lab is nearby, contact a local fertility clinic. Bring the TeleTest requisition; the clinic can usually perform the analysis and send results back to us
  • FlowLabs does not take phone or email appointments - register on their website

Phone numbers:

Common questions#

I want to do a fertility analysis but the closest participating lab is too far.#

Contact a local fertility clinic. Most fertility clinics in Canada perform semen analysis on-site and will accept the TeleTest requisition. Call ahead to confirm they can run the analysis and send results back to us.

I cannot find FlowLabs locations on the TeleTest booking page.#

FlowLabs does not accept faxed requisitions, so they do not appear in the TeleTest lab selector. To use FlowLabs, register on their website with any other lab requisition you download from TeleTest, then upload the requisition during FlowLabs registration. Book the appointment through the FlowLabs portal.

Will my result include a doctor's interpretation?#

The lab provides raw numbers. A TeleTest clinician adds interpretation when results come in - what is normal for your situation, what the next steps are, whether to repeat, whether to see a specialist.

Can my partner attend the collection with me?#

If the lab has a private collection room, in some cases yes - call the lab to confirm their policy.

Will my family doctor see my result?#

Only if you ask them to. By default, the lab sends the result only to the clinician on the requisition (the TeleTest clinician). Ask the lab tech to confirm no other clinician is being CC'd before processing - some labs reflexively add the family doctor to the routing.

I want to do this anonymously - is that possible?#

No. Semen analysis requires a valid health card or government ID for sample labelling; the lab cannot accept anonymous samples. The result is still confidential within your TeleTest account.

Do I need to fast?#

No. Fasting does not affect semen analysis.

Can I drink alcohol the day before?#

A single drink is unlikely to matter. Heavy drinking the day before can suppress motility. For best results, avoid alcohol for at least 24-48 hours before collection.

What about COVID-19 or other recent infections?#

A fever from any cause can suppress sperm production for weeks. If you had a significant fever in the past 2-3 months and the result is abnormal, repeat the analysis in another 1-3 months before drawing conclusions.

Request a TeleTest consultation#

Last reviewed: Spring 2026. Reviewed by Dr. Mohan Pandit, Chief Medical Officer at TeleTest. We review this page periodically as medical guidelines, lab practices, and provincial programs evolve. This page is for general information, not personal medical advice. If you've noticed information that may be out of date or have suggestions, please contact us - we appreciate the help keeping these resources accurate.

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