Antisperm antibody (ASA) blood test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies that can attack sperm. Doctors may order it as part of an infertility work-up, for example after a vasectomy reversal or testicular injury, or when sperm are clumping.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careAntisperm antibodies can reduce sperm movement or fertilisation, though tests on semen are usually more useful than blood, and ICSI can often work around them.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse checks your details and the fertility doctor's request
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3A needle collects a tube of blood
- 4The lab tests your serum for antibodies that bind to sperm
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results are reported as negative or positive and need to be read with a semen analysis by your fertility doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can mean the immune system has reacted to sperm, which can reduce sperm movement or fertilisation. A blood result is less direct than tests done on semen or on the sperm themselves.
Who usually has this test
Men after vasectomy reversal, testicular injury or surgery, or with clumping sperm, and sometimes couples with unexplained infertility.
Risks and aftercare
You may have a small bruise; there is nothing else to do afterwards.
Names and options
Also called: ASA, ASAB, anti-sperm antibody, sperm antibody
Listed by the hospital as
- ANTI SPERM ANTIBODY (ASAB), SERUM
Questions about this test
Can antisperm antibodies cause infertility?
They can, by making sperm clump or swim poorly, but many people with antibodies still conceive. Testing on semen is usually more informative than a blood test. Your doctor can discuss options such as IUI or ICSI if they are a concern.
Can women have antisperm antibodies too?
Yes, though it is less common. Testing women is debated, and many fertility doctors do not order it routinely.
Is a blood test or a semen test better for antisperm antibodies?
Tests on the semen sample, such as the MAR test, look directly at antibodies on the sperm and are usually preferred. A blood test may be used when a semen test is not possible.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.