Fertility tests for men

Male infertility is increasingly being diagnosed. Statistics show that the so-called male factor is responsible for up to 50% cases of infertility in couples who visit a specialist due to difficulties in obtaining a pregnancy. Experts emphasise that male fertility testing is a key element in the diagnostic process, enabling the precise identification of the causes of fertility problems in couples.

Male infertility is a condition in which a man is unable to bring a woman to conception due to insufficient or abnormal sperm count or structure. Both the quality and quantity of sperm in semen are key indicators of male reproductive capacity, and semen standards set by the WHO have been steadily declining over recent decades. Furthermore, male infertility, apart from prolonging the waiting time for a child, often does not produce any symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. For this reason, proper diagnosis and detailed fertility testing in men is extremely important.

Why take a fertility test?

Fertility testing in men depends on the medical history and then on the indications of the doctor specialising in infertility treatment. Initial diagnosis usually begins with semen tests. Semen analysis provides important information on the quantity, quality and motility of sperm. However, it is worth remembering that there are many factors that can cause male infertility, including general health, hormonal imbalances, past infections or previous treatments. In some cases, additional male fertility tests such as hormone tests or genetic testing may be recommended. With male fertility tests, it is possible to detect problems quickly and then implement appropriate treatment. Regular diagnostics not only support the treatment of infertility, but also contribute to the maintenance of a man's overall good health.

How does semen testing work?

Semen examination, otherwise spermiogramThis is a basic fertility test for men. It makes it possible to assessment of sperm count, their quality and activity according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) standard. Many patients ask what does a semen examination look like? First of all, it is worth pointing out that this test is performed routinely, is non-invasive and painless. 

• In the first instance, the patient should make an appointment at the infertility clinic where the test is carried out.

• The semen collection takes place in a specially prepared room for maximum comfort and discretion. The room is located in a secluded part of the clinic and is equipped with support materials such as films or erotic magazines. The patient's female partner can also accompany the sample collection.

• It is advisable to wash your hands before the semen collection itself, and after ejaculation the material is placed in a sterile, dedicated container.

• Once the sample is submitted to the laboratory, it is analysed in detail.

In special cases, it is also possible to deliver semen from outside the clinic, but this should be within a maximum of 30 minutes of collection. However, andrologists suggest that the patient use the conditions provided by the clinic to avoid the risk of improper transport or storage of the sample, which may falsify the result of the male fertility test. In all cases, the semen goes to the laboratory, where it undergoes precise computerised analysis.

How to prepare for a semen test?

Patients often ask how to prepare for a semen test? Although it is a test performed routinely for which no special preparation is needed, it is worth noting a few issues that can falsify the result.

• It is worth remembering to maintain the recommended sexual abstinence (abstaining from ejaculation)- preferably 3 to 5 days before the examination.

• To make the results as reliable as possible, it is not advisable to come to the clinic with an infection.

Refrain from any stimulants, including alcohol, 3-5 days before the test

When will I receive my semen test results?  

Semen test results are ready within 4-6 working days.

The evaluation of semen parameters includes a detailed analysis of characteristics such as viscosity, liquefaction time, pH, as well as the overall appearance of the sample. Microscopic examination determines the concentration of sperm in 1 ml of ejaculate, as well as the percentage of viable and motile sperm. The diagnostician additionally assesses the presence of agglutination, a phenomenon of 'clumping' of spermatozoa that prevents their normal motility.

Interpretation of a sperm test result - WHO standards

• Ejaculate volume ≥ 1.4 ml

• Total number of sperm in the ejaculate ≥ 39 million

• Sperm concentration (number of sperm in 1 ml of semen) ≥ 16 million

• Overall percentage of motile sperm (progressive and non-progressive movement) ≥ 42%

• Percentage of sperm with progressive movement ≥ 30%

• Sperm viability (percentage of viable sperm) ≥ 58%

• pH ≥ 7,2

• Sperm morphology (normal sperm) ≥ 4%

Male fertility testing - price

The price of male fertility tests can vary depending on the facility and the range of tests performed. It is worth consulting with your doctor to select the appropriate range of tests for your individual situation.

The final price of a male fertility test depends on the location of the clinic.