What is a sperm test?

A sperm test is used to check how healthy your sperm is, giving you a clearer picture of your fertility levels. Sperm is one of many factors that can affect your fertility, and this test can help you identify if your sperm is healthy enough for conception. 

Our sperm test will tell you:

• Your total sperm count (how much sperm you produced)
• How concentrated your sperm is (the amount of sperm per millilitre of your semen)
• The motility of your sperm (how well your sperm can move)
• The quality of your sperm (whether you have any abnormalities or problems with sperm quality)

If you have any questions about your results or what they mean, you can always message a doctor through your patient account free of charge. We’re here to help and support you.

Fertility testing isn’t always a clear-cut answer, and while your results may indicate you’re less fertile or infertile, other factors can contribute to your fertility levels. This test will not give you a plain yes or no answer when it comes to your fertility, but it will give you plenty of information about your sperm health and how that affects your fertility levels.

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How accurate is this sperm test?

The accuracy of this test kit is reported to be up to 97% by the manufacturer (Mojo), and is a great screening tool to check for fertility problems. By making sure you take your test correctly and within the right amount of time, you can make sure you get the most accurate results. 

It’s important to know that while there are other male fertility test kits available, they can be significantly less accurate or provide you with less information after you receive your results. We always make sure you know exactly what your results mean and what you should do next.

Never purchase a fertility test kit from an unreliable retailer. This is to make sure you always get accurate results and the right care from clinical professionals.

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When should I do a sperm test?

You can take a sperm test anytime you want to know more about your fertility. You don’t need to take one just because you’re trying to conceive at the moment. 

We recommend a sperm test if:

• You’re considering starting a family or expanding yours.
• You are struggling to conceive and want to make sure your sperm quality isn’t causing an issue.
• You want to check your sperm health to make sure it’s not affecting your fertility.

Men’s fertility levels start to decline at around 40 to 45. So, if you’re planning to have children around this time, you might want to take a sperm test so you can consider freezing your sperm for future use. 

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How to use a sperm test

Step 1: Before getting your test kit 

Do not ejaculate for at least 2 to 5 days before producing your sample.

Step 2: After getting your test kit

Place the preserving liquid in the fridge

As soon as your test kit arrives, place the preserving liquid in the fridge. It must be kept in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. 

Activate your test kit

You need to do this so we can make sure you get your results.

Book your free sample return

Before taking your test, you need to book your free sample return. You will be provided clear instructions on how to do this. You must book your sample return before taking your test as you need to produce your sample 60 minutes returning it.

Take the preserving liquid out of the fridge

You must remove your preserving liquid from the fridge 45 minutes before producing your sample. This is so that it can reach room temperature.

Step 3: Produce your sample

1. Wash your hands and genitals thoroughly before using your test kit. Do not apply lubrication or saliva to your genitals, as this can impact your results.
2. Ejaculate in the provided sample cup. You do not need to completely fill up the cup.
3. Mix in the preserving liquid and give it a gentle swirl before sealing the sample cup.
4. Place the sealed sample cup into the provided thermal container and activate the heat pack.
5. Place the activated heat pack on top of the sample and seal the thermal container.
6. Place the sealed thermal container into the provided packaging before sending it back.

Receiving your results

After the lab receives your sample, you should get results within 48 hours. We will send you a message to let you know you can view these results in your Superdrug Online Doctor account. All you have to do is log in to view your messages. We only provide clinical information through your patient account to guarantee your privacy and security.

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Understanding your sperm test results

You will receive your results and a detailed report that will tell you:

The volume of your semen 

This is what moves your sperm where it needs to go. If your sperm is unable to reach its destination, you’re less likely to conceive.

Sperm motility

This is a percentage number that shows how well each of your sperm can move. Having a higher level of sperm motility means there’s a better chance of your sperm reaching an egg for fertilisation.

Sperm concentration

Your sperm concentration is how much sperm you produce when you ejaculate. Having a higher concentration of sperm improves your chances of conceiving.

Sperm form

This is what your sperm looks like. This test will let you know how many abnormal forms of sperm you have compared to normal sperm. Abnormal sperm can make it more challenging to conceive, so this can be a good indicator of your fertility levels. 

When you receive your results, your doctor will be on hand to provide any additional advice or support you may need. You can always message them for free through your patient account if you have any questions at all.

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What happens after I’ve got my results?

What to do next will depend on your results. If there are any problems with your sperm, our doctors will be here to support you. We can:

• Give you clear advice on what you need to do next if you require further testing.
• Support you in understanding your results to give you a clearer picture of your fertility levels.
• Provide advice on how you can start improving your sperm health with dietary and lifestyle changes. 

If your results show that there aren’t any problems with your sperm, we also provide fertility testing for women. We recommend that both people trying to conceive check their fertility levels to improve their chances of conceiving or to help them understand their other options when it comes to having children.

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Why choose fertility testing with Superdrug Online Doctor

With Superdrug Online Doctor, you get more than accurate results from the comfort of your own home. You get a complete fertility report, which is accepted by most fertility clinics as part of fertility treatment, and clear advice from our doctors on what to do next. You will also always have access to our doctors with free messaging through your patient account. There’s no need to book an appointment, and there are no waiting rooms.

Benefits of the Superdrug Online Doctor male fertility testing service:

• You will receive a full report that analyses 22 different parameters of your sperm health and fertility. This will give you and your doctor a better understanding of your test results and fertility levels.
• Your test results will be in line with an NHS test or World Health Organisation test. If you’re using a high street test or a smartphone test, this may not be the case. 
• Complete access to our doctors for free advice and support. When you test with us, our doctors will be on hand throughout the process to answer any queries you have regarding your results or what to do next, and it’s all free through your patient account.

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