Fertility tests for men

A semen analysis will be required 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. In addition to the sample’s volume and pH, the male fertility test also assesses: 

We usually only require a single sample; however, we may ask for it to be repeated to double-check anything that looks abnormal.  

In some cases, we’ll also carry out: 

• A hormone evaluation – This is a blood test that measures testosterone and other hormones that control the making of sperm. 

• Genetic testing – To identify any genetic defects that may be affecting your fertility. 

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.

Some patients suffer anxiety over producing a sample. This reaction is quite common. Therefore, do not 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.

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  

Once we’ve carried out the semen analysis, we’ll book you in for a consultation to talk you through the results. We’ll recommend and explain any treatment options that may benefit you. 

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

• Abstain from ejaculation for the correct number of days  

• Refrain from smoking  

• Avoid/lower your alcohol and drugs intake. Some prescription drugs can affect your sperm count. Please check with your doctor if you are currently taking any medication 

• Eat a healthy diet full of antioxidants  

• Exercise regularly 

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

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.  

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

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.