Semen analysis is a test done to evaluate male fertility in which health and viability of a man's sperm are analysed. It analyses characteristics of semen and sperm contained therein, like the number of sperm, the shape of sperm and sperm motility.

Semen analysis is performed for following reasons
- to evaluate male infertility
- to verify that vasectomy was successful after the procedure
- to test donors for sperm donation

Yes, you need to take certain measures before semen analysis like
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, drugs like cocaine 5 days before the test
- Avoid ejaculation for 48-72 hours before the test.
- In case of medications, discuss about them with your physician and avoid any herbal and hormonal medications before the test.

Semen analysis can help to identify the cause of male infertility if there is any abnormality in the sperm count, motility and shape. It analyses characteristics of semen and sperm contained therein. However, other causes of infertility cannot be identified by semen analysis.

Following parameters are identified in semen analysis
- Sperm count
- Sperm motility
- Shape of sperm
- Macroscopic evaluation like appearance, consistency, volume, pH of semen
- Sperm viability
- Cells other than spermatozoa