Treatment Overview
Sperm agglutination and morphology evaluation are two critical components of a comprehensive semen analysis. These assessments help determine the health, structure, and functional capability of sperm, which play a vital role in natural conception and assisted reproductive treatments.
Sperm agglutination refers to the abnormal sticking or clumping of sperm, often caused by antisperm antibodies or infections. Morphology analysis examines the shape and structure of sperm — particularly the head, midpiece, and tail — to determine whether they meet normal standards for fertilization potential.
In Korea, these tests are performed using world-class diagnostic technologies within modern andrology laboratories, making the country a leading destination for male fertility evaluation.
Purpose & Benefits
Sperm agglutination and morphology tests provide valuable insights for diagnosing infertility and guiding treatment. Key benefits include:
- Identifying immune-related infertility: Agglutination can signal the presence of antisperm antibodies that disrupt sperm movement.
- Detecting structural abnormalities: Morphology analysis helps identify defects affecting fertilization potential.
- Assessing overall semen quality: Results indicate whether sperm can move, swim effectively, and penetrate the egg.
- Supporting treatment planning: Helps fertility specialists determine the need for treatments like ICSI, IVF, medications, or lifestyle modification.
- Early detection of health issues: Abnormal morphology may indicate varicocele, hormonal imbalance, infections, or toxic exposure.
- Enhancing reproductive outcomes: Addressing findings often improves pregnancy success rates.
Ideal Candidates
This testing is ideal for men who:
- Are undergoing a fertility evaluation with their partner
- Have unexplained infertility
- Have previously abnormal semen analysis results
- Have suspected antisperm antibodies
- Experience chronic infections, prostatitis, or testicular conditions
- Are preparing for assisted reproductive treatments (IVF, ICSI, IUI)
- Have a history of varicocele, hormonal imbalance, or exposure to toxins
The evaluation is safe, non-invasive, and recommended for any man seeking a detailed assessment of reproductive potential.
Possible Risks & Complications
Both sperm agglutination and morphology evaluations are laboratory procedures and carry no direct risks to the patient. However, certain factors may affect accuracy:
- Improper semen collection
- Contamination of the sample
- Extended time between collection and analysis
- Stress, illness, or medication use influencing sperm parameters
- Short or long abstinence periods affecting morphology and agglutination levels
There are no physical complications associated with undergoing these tests.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean fertility centers utilize advanced technologies and WHO-standard diagnostic protocols to ensure highly accurate results.
Technologies used include:
- High-resolution phase-contrast microscopy for morphology evaluation
- Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) for automated morphology scoring
- Coated glass slide techniques for precise agglutination detection
- Mixed antiglobulin reaction (MAR) testing for antisperm antibody confirmation
- Strict Kruger criteria to determine normal vs. abnormal morphology
- Digital semen analysis platforms for recording and analyzing sperm parameters
These technologies ensure that patients receive reliable, objective, and globally recognized fertility assessments.
Treatment Process in Korea
The diagnostic process in Korea follows a structured and comfortable approach for patients:
- Initial Consultation
You meet with a urologist or fertility specialist to discuss medical history, fertility concerns, and any previous semen analysis results. - Semen Sample Collection
Samples are collected in private rooms designed for hygiene and comfort. Korean fertility centers follow strict guidelines to ensure sample accuracy. - Laboratory Evaluation
- Agglutination testing: Evaluates the extent of sperm clumping under a microscope.
- Morphology testing: Performed using strict WHO or Kruger criteria to assess head, midpiece, and tail structure.
- Advanced Testing (if needed)
If abnormal results are observed, additional tests such as MAR, antisperm antibody testing, DNA fragmentation, or hormonal profiling may be recommended. - Review of Results
Specialists explain the findings clearly and provide fertility insights. - Personalized Treatment Plan
Depending on results, treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, varicocele repair, immune therapy, lifestyle changes, or ART procedures.
Korean medical facilities provide fast turnaround times, often delivering results on the same day.
Recovery & After-Care
As diagnostic analyses, these tests do not require medical recovery. However, proper follow-up is essential:
- Maintain the recommended 2–5 days of abstinence before future semen tests.
- Follow the specialist’s treatment plan if abnormalities are detected.
- Address lifestyle factors affecting sperm health, such as smoking, diet, stress, and sleep.
- Complete prescribed treatments for infections or inflammation.
- Attend follow-up semen analyses to monitor improvement in morphology or agglutination levels.
Improvement in sperm quality often occurs gradually, typically within 2–3 months.
Results & Longevity
Results offer essential insights:
- Agglutination: Even mild clumping can reduce motility and fertilization chances. Treatment can significantly improve semen health if the cause is infection or inflammation.
- Morphology: A normal morphology percentage above WHO standards improves natural pregnancy chances; however, even low morphology can still result in successful conception with treatments such as IVF or ICSI.
Longevity of improvements depends on underlying causes, lifestyle habits, and adherence to treatment. Many men experience sustained improvement with proper medical management.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea stands out as a global leader in male fertility diagnostics for several reasons:
- Highly advanced andrology laboratories equipped with CASA and high-precision microscopy
- Internationally recognized fertility specialists
- WHO-standard semen analysis protocols with advanced morphology and agglutination evaluation
- Fast, accurate, and affordable diagnostic services
- Integration with world-class IVF and ART programs
- Excellent medical tourism services, including English interpretation, easy appointment scheduling, and international patient support
- Strict quality control and ethical medical standards
Korea’s fertility infrastructure makes it one of the most trusted destinations for men seeking reliable reproductive evaluations.
Cost Range
The cost for sperm agglutination and morphology evaluation in Korea generally ranges from:
- ₩60,000 to ₩180,000 KRW
If combined with a full semen analysis or additional tests, the cost may be slightly higher depending on the clinic and technology used.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Several leading clinics in Korea specialize in male fertility diagnostics, including:
- CHA Fertility Center Seoul
- Mirae Andrology Laboratory
- Hamchoon Women’s & Male Fertility Clinic
- Seoul National University Hospital – Andrology Department
- Samsung Medical Center – Reproductive Medicine
- Create Fertility Clinic Seoul
These facilities offer world-class semen evaluation and comprehensive fertility treatment options.
