Male Home Fertility Tests – Sperm Count Tests
At-home fertility tests can be an integral part of male fertility testing and as such represent important diagnostic tools that can help your fertility specialist determine the causes of your fertility problems. In addition, at home fertility tests, including sperm count tests, can help establish the best method of infertility treatment. Also, the generally low cost of sperm count tests makes them an affordable supplementary option to medical fertility tests.
Sperm Count Test Procedure
A sperm count test evaluates both the concentration and amount of sperm that is found in a semen sample.
Sperm count levels that are considered to be favorable in order for conception to occur are a sperm count of a minimum of 20 million per milliliter. A sperm count level below 20 million/ml is generally linked to male infertility. Therefore, a sperm count test helps to evaluate whether you have a healthy quantity of sperm.
How Does A Sperm Count Test Work?
A home test for sperm count measures the total number of sperm cells in a semen sample. Sperm count tests use a specialized dye that colours sperm so that the test can assess the number of sperm present.
How Do I Use A Sperm Count Test?
In order to use a sperm count test, you must first produce a semen sample. Then, place the sample inside the test well that comes with a sperm count test kit. The semen sample then mixes with the dye solution in order to identify individual sperm cells in order to assess the total concentration and amount of sperm found in the sample.
After 15 minutes, the colour of the sample is compared to the control color of the sperm count test. If the colour of the semen sample is darker than that of the home test for sperm count, it means that results are positive for healthy sperm levels.
A positive sperm count test means that your sperm count level is at or above 20 million per milliliter. A negative test result means that your sperm count is below 20 million per milliliter.
Many at home tests for sperm count include a second test that enable you to verify the results of your initial sperm count test. This part of the test should be conducted a minimum of three days after your initial sperm count test but less than 7 days later.
After conducting an at home sperm count test, your fertility specialist will usually have you undergo a semen analysis test as part of a follow-up procedure.
How Much Does A Sperm Count Test Cost?
In the United Kingdom, a home sperm count test is approximately £20. This test presents a more affordable option when compared to other male fertility tests.