Semen analysis is the first test for male fertility. The WHO reference limits are the 5th percentile of men whose partners conceived within a year – results below them do not mean a man cannot father children, but they make it less likely and call for repeat testing.
How to use the Semen Analysis Calculator
- Semen volume
- Sperm concentration
- Total motility (progressive + non-progressive)
- Progressive motility
- Vitality
- Normal forms (morphology)
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter the results from your report. Abstain from ejaculation for 2–7 days before the test, and repeat an abnormal result after about 3 months.
WHO 2021 lower reference limits
| Parameter | Lower limit (5th percentile) |
|---|---|
| Volume | 1.4 mL |
| Concentration | 16 million/mL |
| Total count | 39 million |
| Total motility | 42% |
| Progressive motility | 30% |
| Vitality | 54% |
| Normal forms | 4% |
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Semen volume | In mL |
| Sperm concentration | In million/mL |
| Total motility (progressive + non-progressive) | In % |
| Progressive motility | In % |
| Vitality | In % |
| Normal forms (morphology) | In % |
What each result means
- Total sperm count = [Semen volume]×[Sperm concentration]
- Total motile sperm count = [Total sperm count]×[Total motility (progressive + non-progressive)]÷100
- Progressively motile count = [Total sperm count]×[Progressive motility]÷100
- Results below WHO limits = ([Semen volume] < 1.4) + ([Sperm concentration] < 16) + ([Total sperm count] < 39) + ([Total motility (progressive + non-progressive)] < 42) + ([Progressive motility] < 30) + ([Vitality] < 54) + ([Normal forms (morphology)] < 4)
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
Total sperm count = volume × concentration
Total motile count = total count × total motility %
Progressively motile count = total count × progressive motility %
WHO 2021 lower limits: volume 1.4 mL, 16 million/mL, 39 million total, 42% total motility, 30% progressive, 54% vitality, 4% normal forms
Worked example
Inputs — Semen volume: 3 mL; Sperm concentration: 40 million/mL; Total motility (progressive + non-progressive): 55 %; Progressive motility: 40 %; Vitality: 70 %; Normal forms (morphology): 6 %.
Results — Total sperm count = 120 million; Total motile sperm count = 66 million; Progressively motile count = 48 million; Results below WHO limits = 0 of 7; Summary = All values at or above WHO 2021 lower limits.
Key terms
- Motility
- Ability of sperm to move.
- Morphology
- Shape of the sperm (strict criteria).
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal sperm count?
At least 16 million per mL and 39 million in total (WHO 2021 lower limits).
Can sperm quality improve?
Yes – stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, a healthy weight and avoiding heat can help over about 3 months.
What is a good total motile sperm count?
Above about 20 million is associated with good natural fertility; below 5 million often points to IVF/ICSI.