A sperm count analyses the quality of male sperm. A sperm count checks the man’s ability to conceive/the fertility of his sperm cells.

The test covers the exact determination of the sperm’s mobility, its concentration and the sperm morphology as well as the volume and the pH value of the ejaculate.

Healthy ejaculate has a volume of more than 1.5 millilitres, a pH value of >=7.2 and contains more than 15 million sperm cells per ml. Of these, at least 32% should be forwardly mobile, 4% should be normally formed (so-called “ideal forms”).

Ejaculate normally contains no (or very few) white blood cells (immune cells). Bacteria should not be present; if they are found, it could indicate an infection of the semen ducts (prostate, vas deferens, epididymis, testes).

When is a sperm count done?

A sperm count should be carried out if, after a year of having regular, unprotected sex, a couple is still unable to conceive. By performing a relatively simple test on the sperm, the cause of the unfulfilled desire to have children can be quickly found.

Men who are concerned about their fertility should have two sperm counts done at an interval of 2-3 months.

Another reason to carry out a sperm count is to check whether a man is infertile following a vasectomy.

How do I prepare for a sperm count?

In order to obtain accurate results for the sperm count, you will need to be abstinent from sex (no ejaculation) for at least 3 days.

A sperm count should not be carried out if the man is not in his usual physical condition. A cold, fever, infections and allergy phases are factors which could distort the results of a sperm count. Results and data may therefore not provide a representative picture of the quality of semen.

Sperm count: procedure and duration

The sperm sample is collected by the patient by means of masturbation.

If it is possible to get the fresh ejaculate to IHR LABOR within 30 minutes at body temperature (37°C), you will get a sterile container from us at the counter.
Of course there is also the possibility to produce the ejaculate at the laboratory itself in a locked room provided for this purpose.

A sperm count only provides a snapshot of a man’s fertility, not an absolute value. Therefore, it makes sense to repeat the sperm analysis after about four weeks.

Each individual sample is assessed by our professionally trained laboratory staff under the microscope.

An investment in your fertility

The costs for a sperm count amount to EUR 45 and must generally be paid out of your own pocket. Only in exceptional cases are the costs covered by the sickness insurance funds. However, the guidelines for this are extremely strict. Couples who have not conceived after one year of trying can expect to receive financial support. The Austrian sickness insurance funds decide on whether to provide this on a case-by-case basis.

Sperm counts require an appointment

Please note that you need to make an appointment to have a sperm count done. Please use E: info1090@ihrlabor.at or call T: +43 1 408 31 31