semen analysis (abnormal sperm motility)
Last reviewed 01/2018
If less than 50% of the sperm are moving progressively (asthenozoospermia) a problem with motility or an increased level of sperm degradation may be indicated.
Decreased motility may be secondary to sperm dysfunction, prolonged periods of sexual abstinence, partial blockage or infection.
If greater than 50% of sperm are immotile then the analysis will determine whether the sperm are immotile or dead. This will determine whether the sperm immotility is due to cell death or a motlity defect.
Increased cell death may be treatable if the cause is identifiable e.g. partial blockage, increased abstinence periods, infection. Immotile sperm can be used for assisted conception purposes as long as they are alive.