Semen Analysis

The semen analysis is the first — and often only — test a man needs to understand his fertility. One sample, 13 parameters, results in a few days.

What this test measures

A semen analysis is a lab examination of a single ejaculate. A technician measures how much semen there is, how many sperm are in it, how many are moving (and how well), and what fraction have a normal shape. Most labs also record pH, liquefaction, viscosity, and the presence of round cells or clumping.

The results are compared against WHO 2021 reference limits. Falling below a limit does not mean you are infertile — it means that parameter is worth a closer look, usually with a repeat test a few weeks later.

Parameters reported

How to prepare

  • Abstain from ejaculation for 2–7 days before your appointment. Shorter or longer windows skew volume and motility.
  • Do not use lubricants, saliva, or condoms with spermicide during collection — they can kill or slow sperm.
  • Collect the whole sample. The first portion of the ejaculate holds most of the sperm, so a partial sample reads artificially low.
  • If the lab allows at-home collection, keep the cup at body temperature and deliver it within 60 minutes. Many labs require on-site collection — confirm when you book.
  • Bring your Hera lab order (printed or on your phone) and a photo ID.

What happens at the lab

  • Check in at the lab's front desk and hand over your Hera order. The lab may ask you to register as a patient — this takes a few minutes.
  • You'll be given a sterile cup and a private room. Wash your hands, collect by masturbation, and note the exact time of collection on the label.
  • Hand the sample back to staff. Analysis starts within an hour, so there's nothing else for you to do on site.

Getting your results

Most labs report within a few business days; some fertility clinics read the sample the same day. Turnaround varies by lab — confirm when you book.

When you order through Hera, upload the lab report to your dashboard and our AI reads every parameter against WHO 2021 limits, explains what each one means, and flags what to do next.

Sperm take roughly 74 days to develop, so a single result is a snapshot. If anything is flagged, plan a repeat test in 4–12 weeks before drawing conclusions.

Common questions

Do I need a doctor's order for a semen analysis?

Yes — labs in the US and Canada require a physician requisition. Hera provides one: an independent physician reviews your order and signs it, so you can go straight to the lab without booking a separate appointment.

How much does a semen analysis cost?

Lab prices typically range from about $75 to $300 in the US depending on the lab and city. Hera lists the lab's cash price on each location page and charges a separate order fee for the physician order and AI analysis.

How long should I abstain before a semen analysis?

2 to 7 days. Less than 2 days lowers volume and count; more than 7 days lowers motility and can raise DNA fragmentation. Try to keep the same abstinence window if you retest so results are comparable.

Can I collect the sample at home?

Some labs accept samples collected at home if they arrive within 60 minutes at body temperature. Many fertility clinics and hospital labs require on-site collection. Check the location's note on Hera or confirm when you book.

Where to get it

Lab networks with listed locations that run this test through Hera.

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