What are the types of male fertility tests?
No matter your circumstances, Genea Fertility offers a variety of bulk-billed fertility assessments with a fertility GP, recommended for men over 35 who have been trying to conceive for 6 months or 12 months for those under 35. However, you are more than welcome to reach out to us any time, regardless of how long you have been trying.
Physical examination test
During a physical examination, a fertility specialist will carefully examine the genitals to check for issues such as varicocele, signs of hormonal imbalance (small testes, lack of body hair), undescended testes, blocked tubes, or possible infections. In addition, they will assess your overall health indicators that can influence fertility, including blood pressure, weight, diet, smoking and alcohol habits, and in some cases, lifestyle stress factors. This holistic approach helps identify both direct and indirect causes of fertility challenges.
Sample testing: Male fertility blood & urine tests
A male fertility blood test and urine test are used to check key factors that can influence reproductive health. Blood tests measure hormones that regulate sperm production, including FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin, and thyroid function. These hormones play a vital role in the development, quantity, and quality of sperm.
Urine tests may also be used to detect possible infections or abnormalities in the urinary and reproductive tract. In some cases, genetic markers are assessed to identify inherited conditions that may affect sperm function or conception outcomes. These tests are essential because hormone or infection-related infertility can often be treated with medication or targeted therapy, meaning early diagnosis can significantly improve chances of conception.
Semen analysis - Sperm count test
A sperm test analysis is the most common fertility test for men. It is usually completed by providing a semen sample, collected through masturbation in a sterile cup at the clinic. Sometimes, collection at home is possible, but the sample must be delivered to the clinic within a short timeframe to ensure accuracy.
The test examines several markers: sperm count (the number of sperm present), motility (how well the sperm move), morphology (the shape and structure of the sperm), as well as the volume & pH of semen fluid. It also checks for the presence of white blood cells, which may indicate an underlying infection or inflammation. Together, these measures provide a comprehensive picture of male reproductive health and can help guide treatment if abnormalities are detected.
Sperm Chromatin Integrity Test (SCIT)
A SCIT test is a specialised assessment that analyses the DNA quality inside the sperm cells. Unlike a standard semen analysis, this test provides insight into the genetic health of the sperm. It specifically examines the DNA fragmentation Index (DFI), measuring the proportion of sperm with damaged or unstable DNA.
A high level of DFI can significantly reduce the chances of natural conception and is also associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. Factors such as age, smoking, exposure to toxins, infections, and oxidative stress can contribute to higher fragmentation. By identifying these issues, the SCIT can guide lifestyle changes, medical treatments, or assisted reproductive techniques to improve chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy.