Hey there! If you and your partner are having a tough time conceiving, you’re not alone. Around one in seven couples face challenges when trying to start a family, and male infertility is often a significant contributor. Whether you’re seeking clarity about your fertility or have been trying to conceive for a while, our clinics provide fertility tests specifically designed for men. Before diving into any treatment, completing a fertility assessment is essential. If you’re curious about this process, why not have a chat with one of our fertility specialists?
How Do Male Fertility Tests Work?
The primary issue many men face is related to sperm abnormalities. That’s why the first step in assessing male fertility is usually a semen analysis. You don’t need a referral from your GP to book an assessment with us, and completing the necessary tests generally requires just one or two visits. After your tests, we’ll provide you with tailored advice and answer any questions you might have about the next steps.
What Gets Checked During These Tests?
A semen analysis evaluates several factors, including:
- Sperm Density: This indicates how many sperm are present in your sample. A low count is referred to as Oligozoospermia.
- Sperm Motility: This measures how well your sperm can swim. Poor motility, known as Asthenozoospermia, means your sperm might struggle to reach the egg.
- Sperm Morphology: This looks at the size and shape of your sperm. Abnormal shapes can contribute to infertility, with lower numbers of normally shaped sperm termed Teratozoospermia.
We typically only need one sample, but if something seems off, we might request a repeat. In some cases, we’ll also perform:
- Hormone Evaluations: A blood test to check levels of testosterone and other hormones that influence sperm production.
- Genetic Testing: To uncover any genetic issues that could be impacting your fertility.
What to Expect During Your Visit
If you’ve been referred through the NHS, just bring your referral form when you check in. Private patients will need to settle payment upon arrival. After checking in, a lab team member will guide you to a private room for sample collection, providing instructions along the way.
Feeling anxious about producing a sample? That’s totally normal. If you can’t produce one during your visit, don’t worry! You can either rebook at no extra charge or take the sample home for a more comfortable environment. Just remember to use the provided pot and ensure it reaches our lab within an hour.
After the Semen Analysis
After the semen analysis, we’ll schedule a consultation to discuss your results and go over any treatment options that could help you. And of course, there’s no pressure to proceed with treatment afterward.
Tips for Ensuring the Best Sample
To ensure the best possible sample, consider these tips:
- Avoid ejaculation for a few days prior
- Don’t smoke
- Limit alcohol and drug intake (consult with your doctor about any medications)
- Eat a diet rich in antioxidants
- Exercise regularly
- Ensure all of your sample makes it into the pot
It’s essential to know that any mistakes in sample collection or abstinence can skew the analysis results, so keep our lab staff informed if issues arise. If you’re making lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, it usually takes about three months for these improvements to show up in your semen analysis.
How Accurate Are These Tests?
The average sperm count ranges from 40 million to 300 million sperm per milliliter. Our specialists can give you a solid idea of your sperm’s health compared to these averages and help identify potential infertility issues.
Considering a Fertility Assessment?
This package is a valuable first step in your fertility journey. It includes a personal consultation along with a series of tests and scans. We’re here to support you along the way!
What About Costs?
A semen analysis is priced at £205, with a follow-up consultation costing £265. Keep in mind additional costs may apply for further tests. For more detailed pricing and treatment packages, check out your nearest TFP Fertility clinic page.
Ready to Embark on Your Fertility Journey?
Our patient support team is here to help you explore your options and set up your first consultation with a fertility expert.
If you’re interested in learning more about wellness and embracing your journey, check out this informative blog post here. Also, if you’re looking for reliable home insemination options, visit this authority site for more details. For a comprehensive look at pregnancy and home insemination, don’t miss this excellent resource here.
In Summary
Male fertility tests are crucial for understanding potential challenges in conception. By assessing sperm health through analyses, we can determine the best paths forward for you and your partner.