How well do you know your sperm? Chances are, you don’t. Many men don’t think about their reproductive health before it’s time to conceive. However, staying informed and learning about your fertility will help you make more informed decisions about your parenting goals and your overall health. There are multiple ways through which you can learn about your sperm health: either at a clinic or with at-home sperm tests. Both methods have their advantages - let’s look into these options in more detail.
At home sperm tests - how do they work?
The privacy element of at-home sperm tests makes them the ideal choice for many men. It can be hard to muster up the courage to talk to a professional and - while not an alternative - an at-home test can be an informative first step on your fertility journey.
There are four general steps to at-home tests:
- Collect your sample: The process starts with a semen sample, collected through masturbation into a sterile collection cup provided in the test kit. It is important to carefully follow the instructions on your kit to ensure accurate results.
- Preparation: Depending on the test, you may be asked to mix your sample with a liquefaction powder or reagent to ensure its analysed properly
- Analysis: The next step is to process the sample using the test’s device, which assesses key sperm parameters. As an example, the YO Home Sperm Test measures sperm concentration (the number of sperm per ml of semen), sperm motility (how sperm moves), progressive motility, motile sperm concentration, and progressive motile sperm concentration.
- Results: You will be able to see your results within minutes, In the case of the YO Sperm test, it gives you key parameters help you interpret sperm motility levels in relation to established guidelines. It also records a live video of your sample, which you can then share with your doctor.
As you can see, an at-home test eliminates the discomfort of collecting a sample in a sterile, clinical setting. Moreover, at home testing enables you to track changes in your sperm parameters over time, especially if you’re committed to positive lifestyle changes to improve your chances of conception. The immediate feedback provided by at-home tests allows you to take proactive steps on your journey.
Lab-based sperm testing - the process:
- Set an appointment: You must visit a fertility clinic or laboratory to provide a semen sample. Many clinics have private collection rooms, and some allow you to collect a sample at home. If opting for the latter, you have to be careful to keep the sample at the correct temperature and to deliver it in the time stipulated.
- Collecting the sample: The sample is collected in a sterile cup, typically through masturbation.
- Laboratory Analysis: The sample undergoes comprehensive testing, measuring factors such as sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and overall semen quality.
- Getting your results: Lab results usually take a few days to a week to be processed. A healthcare provider will review them. Depending on your results, they may recommend further testing or lifestyle changes.
Lab-based sperm testing provides a more comprehensive assessment of fertility under professional-grade laboratory conditions. Additionally, your results are seen by healthcare professionals who can recommend personalized next steps for improving your reproductive health.
Are at-home sperm tests accurate?
At home tests have evolved greatly over the years. A 2018 study found that the Yo Sperm Test demonstrated high accuracy and precision when compared with a professional-grade laboratory device. The study confirmed that the Yo Sperm Test effectively detects sperm concentration levels and provides a reliable measure of motile sperm concentration. Most importantly, at home tests empower men with information about their fertility and are a valuable first step. They’re also helpful for men who want to see the effects of lifestyle changes, stress, and diet on their reproductive health.
Key Takeaway
At-home sperm tests are not meant to replace comprehensive laboratory tests and professional help. This is especially true if you have other underlying medical conditions which might be impacting your fertility. However, they serve as an excellent first step if you want to gain insight about your sperm health in a private and convenient way, or want to monitor changes over time.