Home Sperm Count Tests

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

15 May 2008 06:23 PM

Technology has advanced to the point that you can now purchase kits to test for sperm count and motility at home. This is a great thing for men who are shy about going into the clinic for the testing. Although, if you go into infertility treatment, the doctor will want to perform a test in the office anyway.

For some couples, there is still an advantage. The test can give you advanced notice of a possible problem. If the test comes back normal, it can give you some peace of mind. In either case, the results can help you determine your next step in your quest to start a family.

The home test kits work in a few different ways. Some only give general information, such as whether the sperm count is above or below 20 million sperm cells per milliliter. These kits work by staining the sperm with a colored dye. This color is then compared to a chart in the kit to determine the count. If the count is low, you will need to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis.

Other test kits offer a bit more information. These kits give you information about the number, health and motility of the sperm. Motility is as important as count for conception. These kits are a bit more involved and some brands come with a microscope to view the sperm sample and detailed instructions on using the kit.

So, this all sounds great but how reliable are they? According to the manufacturers, their studies show the tests are reliable. Keep in mind that human error can affect the results, as it can with any type of home testing kit. Your doctor will likely suggest another test be conducted at the fertility clinic to verify the results of the home test and get a bit more detailed information.

Related Articles:

Study About Beef and Sperm Count

Infertility Testing: The Antisperm Antibody Test

Causes of Male Infertility

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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