Sperm count, low
Home sperm count testing kits
There are several male fertilityhome-testing kits available to buy from pharmacies. These tests claim to indicate whether your sperm count is low.
It may be tempting to try one of the tests if you would rather not see your GP, but you should be aware that:
- although research by the manufacturers suggests these tests can give an accurate indication of sperm count, they haven't been extensively studied
- some home-testing kits classify a low sperm count as under20 million sperm per millilitre of semen, but more recent international guidelines state that anything above15 million sperm per millilitre of semen is normal
- home-testing kits only check the number of sperm, not other things that can affect fertility, such ashow well the sperm are able to move (motility)
While these tests might sometimes give a useful indication of your sperm count, theymay also give you false reassurance ormay suggest your sperm count is low when it's actually perfectly normal.
It's better to see your GP for a proper semen analysis at an accredited laboratory if you're concerned about your fertility. See how to use self-test kits safely for more about the issues of home-testing.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about the causes of a low sperm count, how to get tested, and what the main treatments are to help to conceive.
Gettingyour sperm count checked
See your GP if you have not managed to conceive after one year of trying for a baby. It's a good idea for both you and your partner to get advice, as fertility problems can affect men and women and o
Home sperm count testing kits
There are several male fertilityhome-testing kits available to buy from pharmacies. These tests claim to indicate whether your sperm count is low. It may be tempting to try one of the tests if you wo
Causes of a low sperm count
In many cases, it's not obvious what causes a low sperm count. Sometimes problems with sperm count and quality are associated with: ahormone imbalance, such as hypogonadism (reduced hormone product
Treatments for low sperm count
If you or your partner has been diagnosed with a low sperm count, there are several options available. Keep trying Your doctor may initially suggest trying to conceive naturally for a little longer.
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