Reassessing Semen Analysis: Clinical Insights Beyond Sperm Count and Motility

Semen analysis (SA), recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the cornerstone of male infertility evaluation, remains indispensable in reproductive medicine. However, advances in assisted reproductive technology (ART) and artificial intelligence (AI) have highlighted the limitations of relying solely on conventional semen parameters.

To critically review the evolving clinical role of SA by integrating conventional assessment with emerging functional, molecular, and computational approaches that improve diagnostic accuracy and individualized patient care.

A narrative review of contemporary evidence was conducted, focusing on conventional semen parameters, biofunctional sperm testing, omics technologies, AI-assisted analysis, and broader clinical applications of SA.

Conventional parameters, including sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, remain essential but inadequately reflect fertilizing capacity. Adjunctive assessments, including oxidative stress biomarkers and sperm DNA fragmentation, provide valuable insights into sperm function and reproductive potential. Omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, deepen mechanistic understanding, while AI enhances diagnostic precision, reproducibility, and standardization. Beyond infertility evaluation, SA also supports male contraceptive assessment, natural conception, ART, and patient counseling.

Integrating conventional SA with functional, molecular, and AI-driven diagnostics provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating male fertility, advancing precision reproductive medicine and personalized clinical management.