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Fertility tests for men

One in seven couples have difficulty conceiving and male infertility can be a major factor in this. Whether you have been struggling to conceive naturally, or you simply want to understand more about your fertility, we offer fertility tests for men at all our clinics.

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Do I need a male fertility test?

Before you can start any fertility treatment, you need to have first completed a fertility assessment.

The most common cause of infertility in males is due to abnormalities found in the sperm. This is why initial investigations for male infertility include semen analysis.  

You don’t need to have seen a GP or have been referred to book an assessment with us. It takes just one or two visits to our clinic to complete all the necessary investigations and have a consultation with one of our specialists.  

Most importantly, after your fertility test, you’ll be given the appropriate advice and have the chance to ask questions about potential next steps.   

Diagnosis

What we test for in semen analysis

We usually only require a single sample, but we may ask for a repeated sample to double-check anything that looks abnormal. In addition to the sample’s volume and pH, the male fertility test also assesses:

The process

What happens at a male fertility test?

You may be nervous for your fertility test, which is completely normal.

Here's what you can expect at your fertility assessment:

TFP Wessex Fertility

Step 1 - Checking in to the clinic

If you have been referred to us through the NHS, you’ll simply need to leave your referral form with reception when checking in. If you're a private patient, we do ask for payment upon arrival.

Once you've checked in, a member of our laboratory team will collect you from reception and show you to one of our private production rooms. They will provide you with instructions for producing your sample.

Step 2 - Producing your sample

Some patients suffer anxiety over producing a sample. This reaction is quite common.

Don't be alarmed if you can’t produce a sample on a particular day. You can always rebook your appointment (at no extra cost) or take the pot home for a less clinical environment.

male infertility
Preserving your fertility as a male

Producing the sample at home

If you do decide to produce a sample at home, please ensure: 

  • You use the pot provided by TFP Fertility

  • The sample is not exposed to hot or cold temperatures 

  • Our laboratory receives it within one hour of it being produced  

Step 3 - Semen analysis

After you've provided your sample, we carry our a semen analysis to assess the following: 

  • The likelihood of achieving a pregnancy with your partner 

  • Which treatment is the most appropriate for you and your partner  

  • If there are any problems with your sperm that may require medical help to achieve a pregnancy

All of our semen analyses are performed using World Health Organisation guidelines.

Sperm density
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Step 4 - Follow up consultation

After your semen analysis, we will book you in for a consultation the following week. In this consultation, we will talk you through your results and recommend and explain any treatment options that may benefit you.

Of course, there is no obligation to go ahead with treatment following your consultation.

Your sample

How can I make sure my sample is the best it can be?

It’s important to know that missing the pot or incorrect abstinence can significantly affect the results of your semen analysis. If either is the case, please ensure a member of our laboratory staff is made aware.

Abstain from ejaculation for the correct number of days

Eat a healthy diet full of antioxidants

Exercise regularly

Refrain from smoking

Ensure the whole sample is in the pot (especially the first part).

Avoid / lower your alcohol and drugs intake. Ask your doctor if your prescription drugs can affect sperm count.

Changing lifestyle factors

If you make lifestyle changes, such as giving up smoking or avoiding alcohol, to improve your sperm sample, it is likely to be around three months before a positive effect is seen in semen analyses.

How lifestyle affects fertility
embryo freezing

How accurate are male fertility tests?

The average sperm count is between 40 million and 300 million sperm per milliliter. Using the semen analysis (or sperm count), our specialists can give a strong indication of the health and viability of your sperm against these averages and any likely infertility.

Sperm motility

How much does a male fertility tests cost?

The cost of the semen analysis is £205, and the follow-up consultation is £265. However, it’s important to note that there may be additional costs if further tests are required.  

Visit your local TFP Fertility clinic page for more information on our pricing, treatment packages and payment options available.

TFP Fertility clinic first time consultation
TFP Fertility clinic events
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Ready to start your fertility journey? We're here for you

Speak to our patient support team for advice about your options and to book your first consultation with a fertility expert.