Semen Analysis in Korea

Semen Analysis in Korea: A Crucial Step in Male Fertility Assessment

For couples facing challenges with conception, a semen analysis is often one of the first and most fundamental diagnostic tests for male fertility. This comprehensive laboratory examination evaluates various characteristics of a man's semen and the sperm within it, providing crucial insights into his reproductive potential. South Korea, with its advanced fertility centers and specialized urology clinics, offers state-of-the-art semen analysis services, often as part of a broader male infertility diagnostic pathway.


What is Semen Analysis and Why is it Performed?

Semen analysis, also commonly referred to as a sperm count or spermogram, measures the quantity and quality of semen and the sperm it contains. Semen is the fluid ejaculated during orgasm, composed of spermatozoa (sperm) from the testes and epididymides, mixed with secretions from the prostate, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral glands.

A semen analysis is primarily performed for two main reasons:

  1. Male Fertility Assessment: If a couple has been trying to conceive for at least 12 months (or 6 months if the female partner is over 35) without success, a semen analysis is a primary step to determine if a male factor is contributing to infertility. Male factors are estimated to contribute to about 30-50% of all infertility cases.
  2. Post-Vasectomy Confirmation: After a vasectomy (a surgical procedure for permanent male birth control), semen analysis is performed to confirm the absence of sperm in the ejaculate, ensuring the procedure was successful in preventing pregnancy.


The Semen Analysis Procedure in Korea

For accurate results, proper collection and timely analysis of the semen sample are critical. Fertility clinics and urology centers in Korea provide clear instructions to ensure the integrity of the sample.

Typical Procedure Steps:

  1. Abstinence Period: The patient is usually advised to abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 7 days (commonly 3-5 days) prior to the test. This ensures optimal sperm concentration and quality. An abstinence period that is too short or too long can affect the results.
  2. Sample Collection: The preferred method for collecting a semen sample for fertility assessment is through masturbation into a sterile container provided by the clinic. This is typically done in a private room at the clinic, which is designed for comfort and privacy. If collected at home, the sample must be kept at body temperature (e.g., in an inside coat pocket) and delivered to the laboratory within 30-60 minutes to ensure sperm viability.
  3. Laboratory Analysis: Once submitted, the sample is quickly processed by trained andrologists or embryologists in a specialized laboratory. The analysis typically involves:
  • Liquefaction: Semen is initially thick and gel-like. The lab monitors how long it takes to liquefy (turn into a liquid) – usually within 15-60 minutes.
  • Volume Measurement: The total amount of semen ejaculated (normal range usually 1.5 to 5.0 milliliters).
  • pH Measurement: To assess the acidity or alkalinity of the semen (normal range typically 7.2 to 7.8).
  • Sperm Concentration (Count): The number of sperm per milliliter of semen (normal typically 15 million/mL or higher according to WHO 2021).
  • Total Sperm Count: The total number of sperm in the entire ejaculate (concentration x volume).
  • Sperm Motility: The percentage of sperm that are actively moving, and their quality of movement (progressive motility - moving forward efficiently, versus non-progressive or immotile). Normal often requires at least 42% total motility and 30% progressive motility.
  • Sperm Morphology: The percentage of sperm that have a normal shape and structure (head, midpiece, tail). This is a strict assessment, with normal often being 4% or higher of sperm having normal morphology (strict Kruger criteria).
  • Vitality: If motility is low, this test determines the percentage of live sperm, even if they are not moving.
  • Presence of Other Cells: Checking for white blood cells (leukocytes), which can indicate infection or inflammation, or red blood cells.



Interpreting Semen Analysis Results

It's important to remember that semen parameters can vary from sample to sample, and a single abnormal result does not necessarily mean infertility. If initial results are abnormal, the doctor will usually recommend a repeat test after a few weeks.

Potential Abnormalities and Their Implications:

  • Oligozoospermia: Low sperm count.
  • Azoospermia: Complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate.
  • Asthenozoospermia: Reduced sperm motility.
  • Teratozoospermia: Reduced number of normally shaped sperm.
  • Low Semen Volume: May indicate blockages or issues with accessory glands.
  • Abnormal pH: Could suggest infection or blockages.
  • High White Blood Cell Count (Pyospermia): Suggests infection or inflammation.

If abnormalities are found, further investigations may be recommended, such as hormone blood tests, genetic testing, scrotal ultrasound, or post-ejaculatory urinalysis to check for retrograde ejaculation.


When seeking a semen analysis in Korea, it's advisable to choose a clinic or hospital with an accredited andrology laboratory that regularly performs these tests, as quality control and experienced technicians are crucial for reliable results. Consulting with a fertility specialist or urologist after receiving the results is vital for proper interpretation and guidance on the next steps in your fertility journey.