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How can I check my sperm count at home?
You can check your sperm count from the comfort of your home with an at-home sperm check test. All you need to do is provide the semen sample. SpermCheck offers two testing kits, each one tailored for specific stages in the male fertility cycle. For example, if you have had a vasectomy and want to ensure your semen is sperm free, the SpermCheck Vasectomy Test is for you. If you are looking to conceive but want to ensure low sperm count is not an issue, you should consider the SpermCheck Fertility Test.
How do I collect my sample when taking a home sperm test?
Collect your sample in the semen container provided within the test kit. Ejaculate into the collection cup and avoid using any lubricants or saliva. Also, do not use a condom to collect the semen, as some condoms contain spermicides which can contaminate semen samples and lead to inaccurate results.
How should I store my home sperm test?
Store your SpermCheck Vasectomy/Fertility Test in a cool, dry place at 36°–86°F (2°–30°C). Do not freeze.
Are there any other SpermCheck product details I should know about?
- For in-vitro diagnostic use.
- Not for internal use.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Not for contraceptive use.
- Do not use the test if the foil wrapper containing the test is damaged.
- Do not use this product after the expiration date.
My sample did not become a thin liquid after 20 minutes. Can I still perform the test?
Yes, the SpermCheck device may still provide an accurate result even if your sample does not completely liquefy. However, if your sample has not liquefied at all or if your dropper gets clogged with solid or stringy material, you should discard the sample and wait 48 hours before collecting another one. If you experience the same problem again, you should contact your physician for a semen evaluation.
The Test Line was not visible after 7 minutes but did appear later. What does this mean?
The correct time to read the results is precisely at seven (7) minutes after you add the Solution. It is possible that the Test Line may develop some color after 7 minutes, which is why reading the results before or after that time may give an incorrect result.
What should I do if my SpermCheck test result is invalid?
We’re here to help. If you received an invalid result, are missing pieces, or have another issue with your test, please fill out our Product Support Form or email [email protected] with your mailing address, receipt, a photo of the test, and the lot number. Our team will review and assist you as quickly as possible.
I have other questions about how to use my home sperm test. Who can I contact?
If you’re not sure how to perform the test, how to read the result, or if you don’t understand the meaning and possible consequences of your test result, you can contact Customer Service at (866) 635-2308 during business hours (M–F, 8am to 5pm Eastern) or email [email protected] 24/7, or for medical questions, contact your healthcare provider.
Fertility Sperm Tests
Can underlying conditions hinder male reproductive health?
In some cases, your fertility status may change if you have certain underlying conditions. If medical conditions are a concern for you, consult with your primary care physician to discuss potential risks and interventions. Early diagnosis and intervention can play a pivotal role in optimizing fertility outcomes. Hormonal imbalances, structural anomalies, infections/increased count of white blood cells, and/or certain medications can cause male infertility or affect specific metrics like sperm concentration, semen volume, sperm motility, sperm morphology, sperm count, and more.
What is considered a normal sperm count?
A typical healthy concentration of sperm is 15-20 million sperm per milliliter or more. Sperm analysis results that are lower than 15-20 million sperm per milliliter would be considered low sperm count.
How can a man increase his sperm count naturally?
The following dietary and lifestyle changes can help men with a low sperm count:
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Replace animal fats with monounsaturated oils, such as olive oil.
- Certain specific nutrients and vitamins have been studied for their effects on male infertility and sperm health. While there is no conclusive evidence that they are effective, antioxidant vitamins (vitamin C, vitamin E) and the dietary supplements L-carnitine and L-acetylcarnitine, are known to help increase sperm count.
- Avoid cigarettes and any drugs that may alter normal sperm counts or reduce sexual function.
- According to a study from Harvard University, there is a direct correlation between waist size and testosterone levels. 2 The ideal BMI is between 20 and 25.
- Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night.
- Exercise moderately, but regularly, as excessive exercise can impair fertility.
- Although studies indicate that tight underwear is no threat to male fertility, there is no harm in wearing looser clothing (switch from briefs to boxers).
- To prevent overheating of the testes, men should avoid hot baths, Jacuzzis, steam rooms, and using a laptop computer directly on the lap for a long length of time.
- Avoid the use of sexual lubricants as they may affect sperm motility.
- Reduce stress. It is not known if stress reduction techniques can affect fertility, but they may help couples endure the difficult processes involved in dealing with infertility issues.
How does SpermCheck Fertility work?
SpermCheck Fertility is easy to use, providing fast, easy-to-read results. Similar to a pregnancy test, this test uses colored lines to inform you if there is a normal or low sperm count. Done in the privacy of your own home, a semen sample is placed in the solution bottle provided and the two are mixed. As indicated in kit instructions, drops of the mixture are placed in the testing device, which measures the sperm count level in the sample. All the contents needed for testing are in the package. The patented process of sperm detection is made possible by a protein found exclusively in the head of mature sperm. In just minutes, the results indicate a normal (positive result) or below normal (negative result) sperm count.
What’s included with my SpermCheck Fertility kit?
Each Ferility test kit includes:
- 1 SpermCheck device
- 1 semen transfer device
- 1 semen collection cup
- 1 SpermCheck solution bottle
- 1 set of instructions for use
What does a positive SpermCheck Fertility result mean?
A positive result (two lines) indicates that sperm count is at least 20 million per milliliter, a level that is considered a “normal” male fertility level. A positive result from a sperm test for fertility by itself does not prove that the man is fertile since there are other factors that can influence a man’s ability to father a child. However, it will indicate that sperm count is not the issue. If you have ruled out sperm count as the issue, and are still unable to conceive a baby after six months, both the male and female should have full fertility evaluations by a physician, even if your SpermCheck Fertility test result was positive.
What does a negative SpermCheck Fertility result mean?
A negative (one line) result indicates that sperm count is less than 20 million per milliliter, which would likely create conception issues. However, some men with sperm counts below this level are still able to father a baby naturally. It is also important to understand that sperm count can vary from day to day, or improve with lifestyle changes, so it is possible that you might get a positive result if you were to wait a while and take the test again. You should consult a physician if your sperm count test result is negative, particularly on subsequent SpermCheck Fertility home tests.
Can a disease or health condition cause male fertility issues?
In some cases, aspects of the male reproductive system may change if you have certain underlying conditions. If medical conditions are a concern for you, consult with your primary care physician to discuss potential risks and interventions. Early diagnosis and intervention can play a pivotal role in optimizing fertility outcomes and increasing healthy sperm counts.
Hormonal imbalances, structural anomalies, infections/increased count of white blood cells, and/or certain medications can cause male infertility or affect specific metrics like:
- Sperm Production
- Sperm Concentration
- Semen Volume
- Sperm Motility
- Sperm Morphology
- And More
How many sperm are necessary for a normal sperm count?
For the male reproductive system, a typical healthy concentration of sperm is 15 million sperm per milliliter or more. Sperm analysis results that are lower than 15 million sperm per milliliter would be considered low sperm count.
How can a man increase his sperm count naturally?
In some cases, sperm count may increase if an underlying condition can be identified and treated. However, the following dietary and lifestyle changes can also help a man increase his sperm count:
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Replace animal fats with monounsaturated oils, such as olive oil.
- Certain specific nutrients and vitamins have been studied for their effects on male infertility and sperm health. While there is no conclusive evidence that they are effective, antioxidant vitamins (vitamin C, vitamin E) and the dietary supplements L-carnitine and L-acetylcarnitine, are known to help increase sperm count.
- Avoid cigarettes and any drugs that may affect sperm count or reduce sexual function.
- According to a study from Harvard University, there is a direct correlation between waist size and testosterone levels. 2 The ideal BMI is between 20 and 25.
- Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. 3
- Exercise moderately, but regularly, as excessive exercise can impair fertility.
- Although studies indicate that tight underwear is no threat to male fertility, there is no harm in wearing looser clothing (switch from briefs to boxers).
- To prevent overheating of the testes, men should avoid hot baths, Jacuzzis, steam rooms, and using a laptop computer directly on the lap for a long length of time.
- Avoid the use of sexual lubricants as they may affect sperm motility.
- Reduce stress. It is not known if stress reduction techniques can affect fertility, but they may help couples endure the difficult processes involved in dealing with infertility issues.
Should I test my semen samples at home before I see a fertility doctor?
Due to concerns about male factor infertility, many men are turning to home sperm tests as an initial step in male fertility testing. However, it’s important to note that sometimes a comprehensive male fertility test from your doctor is also necessary. Both at-home and in-office semen analysis tests can provide accurate insights and identify abnormal results.
When should I see a doctor about male infertility?
If you have a negative result on the SpermCheck Fertility test, either once or on a subsequent test, speak to your physician. Additionally, experts base their advice for when to seek treatment on the woman’s age and how long you’ve been having unprotected sex:
-
Age 35 or younger: See your physician (gynecologist, general practitioner, urologist) if you haven’t conceived after 10 to 12 months. A year can seem like a long time, but most younger couples will conceive within a year of trying if there are no other issues. After a year of trying, a complete semen analysis may be beneficial.
- Age 35 or older (or have a history of fertility problems): See your physician after six months of trying. You may still be able to get pregnant, but it may take longer, so don’t delay getting help.
Vasectomy Sperm Tests
When should I test my sperm levels after my vasectomy?
Your physician will generally determine the number of semen analysis tests required to ensure your sterility. Even with a complete semen analysis by your physician, we do recommend that you test yourself at two different time intervals in the first three months post-procedure. It is generally considered best to test 60 and 90 days after your vasectomy.
After the first three months of a vasectomy, how often should I check my sperm levels?
Additional semen testing should also be performed at least once per year after your procedure. Many men test every 6 months to ensure that their vasectomy is still working.
What’s included with my SpermCheck Vasectomy test kit?
Each Vasectomy test kit includes:
- 2 SpermCheck devices
- 2 semen transfer devices
- 2 semen collection cups
- 2 SpermCheck solution bottles
- 1 set of instructions for use
How can I interpret my SpermCheck Vasectomy results?
If you see both a Control Line (marked as “C” on the SpermCheck Vasectomy device) and a Test Line (marked as “T”), your sperm count is at least 250,000 per milliliter, which is considered high, and other forms of birth control should still be used to prevent pregnancy.
If you see a Control Line (marked as “C” on the SpermCheck Vasectomy device) but not a Test Line (marked as “T”), your sperm count is less than 250,000 per milliliter, which is low enough for you to have extremely low or no risk of bringing about a pregnancy.
If you do not see a control line (marked as “C” on the SpermCheck Vasectomy device), the test cannot be interpreted and you should test again with another SpermCheck device.
My Vasectomy test results show a high sperm count. What does that mean?
A high result does not necessarily mean that your vasectomy was unsuccessful. However, it does mean that there are still too many sperm left in your semen. It is recommended that you continue to use birth control until you talk to your physician and achieve a negative result on two consecutive semen analysis tests.
I got a low test result from my Vasectomy sperm test – what does that mean?
A low result indicates that your sperm count is extremely low and that the chance of pregnancy is highly unlikely. However, it is still recommended that you speak to your physician before stopping the use of other birth control methods.
