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How to Check Male Fertility Naturally

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When a couple is having difficulty conceiving, both partners need to be evaluated to try to pinpoint the cause of fertility problems. Since problems with male fertility are usually related to sperm production, it’s natural for men to want to know how to check male fertility naturally. Fortunately, there are tests men can take at home that can provide an idea on whether sperm count may be low.

Even if you have a normal sperm count, there may be other reasons you’re having difficulty fathering a child. Couples struggling with fertility should keep in mind that seeing a fertility specialist is a better way to obtain a much more thorough evaluation. Compassionate and knowledgeable experts in the field of assisted reproductive technologies can be found at the Center for Reproductive Health.

What Can You Learn From At-Home Tests?

There are several different types of at-home tests that can test semen samples to evaluate the quality and quantity of sperm. Many men like the idea of an at-home test because they feel more comfortable taking a sperm test in the privacy of their own home. 

The sample is collected by masturbating into a cup or by wearing a special condom that collects semen during intercourse. For best results, avoid ejaculating for two or more days before collecting a sample. Avoid using lubricants and make sure all your semen makes it into the collection cup. 

Some things you may be able to learn from at-home sperm test kits include:

  • Total sperm count
  • Sperm motility, which refers to how well sperm moves
  • Sperm concentration
  • Sperm volume
  • Sperm morphology or shape

Results from some tests are available in around 45 minutes. Other tests need to be shipped to a lab and typically take two to five days for results. Not all at-home sperm test kits are covered by insurance. If you want to try an at-home sperm test kit, look for one that has been cleared by the FDA, but keep in mind that not all causes of male infertility can be identified by an at-home test kit.

Improving Sperm Count

There are many possible causes of low sperm count. Lifestyle changes may help boost sperm production in some cases. Consume a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and lean meats along with food high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. There may be a connection between being overweight and having low sperm count, so it’s a good idea to work on attaining a healthy weight.

Regular physical activity is a critical factor in overall health and may have an impact on your sperm count. If you’ve been leading a sedentary lifestyle, talk to your doctor about the best way to become more active. Quit smoking and avoid consuming excessive alcohol. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and work on controlling the amount of stress you’re under.

 

An at-home sperm test isn’t always reliable and can’t replace the comprehensive fertility evaluation provided by the Center for Reproductive Health. Schedule an appointment today. 

See Dr. Mor’s Publications

Eliran Mor, MD

Reproductive Endocrinologist located in Encino, Santa Monica, Valencia & West Hollywood, CA
Reproductive Endocrinologist located in Encino, Valencia & West Hollywood, CA Doctor Mor received his medical degree from Tel Aviv University-Sackler School of Medicine in Israel. He completed a four-year residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at New York Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, New York. Subsequently, Dr. Mor completed a three-year fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility […]
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FAQ

What does a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist do?

Reproductive endocrinology and Infertility is a sub-specialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology. In addition to managing medical and surgical treatment of disorders of the female reproductive tract, reproductive endocrinologist and infertility (REI) specialists undergo additional years of training to provide fertility treatments using assisted reproductive technology (ART) such as in vitro fertilization.

Reproductive endocrinologists receive board certification by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.

When should I see an REI specialist?

In general, patients should consider consulting with an REI specialist after one year of trying unsuccessfully to achieve pregnancy. The chance of conceiving every month is around 20%, therefore after a full year of trying approximately 15% of couples will still not have achieved a pregnancy.

However, if a woman is over the age of 35 it would be reasonable to see a fertility specialist earlier, typically after 6 months of trying.

Other candidates to seek earlier treatment are women who have irregular menses, endometriosis, fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), women who have had 2 or more miscarriages, or problems with the fallopian tubes (prior ectopic pregnancy).

What are the reasons we are having trouble conceiving?

Approximately 1/3 of the time cause for infertility is a female factor, 1/3 of the time a male factor, and the remaining 1/3 a couples’ factor.

At CCRH, we emphasize the importance of establishing a correct diagnosis. Both partners undergo a comprehensive evaluation including a medical history and physical exam.

Furthremore, the woman’s ovarian reserve is assessed with a pelvic ultrasound and a hormonal profile. A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) will confirm fallopian tube patency and the uterine cavity is free of intracavitary lesions. A semen analysis is also obtained to evaluate for concentration, motility, and morphology of the sperm.

Additional work up is then individualized to direct the best possible treatment option for each couple.

What is IVF? What is the process like?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the process that involves fertilization of an egg outside of a woman’s body.

The process starts with fertility drugs prescribed to help stimulate egg development. In your natural cycle, your body is only able to grow one dominant egg, but with stimulation medication we can recruit multiple eggs to continue to grow. After about 8-10 days of stimulation, the eggs are surgically retrieved and then fertilized with sperm in a specialized laboratory. Fertilized eggs are then cultured under a strictly controlled environment within specialized incubators in the IVF laboratory for 3-5 days while they develop as embryos. Finally, embryos (or an embryo) are transferred into the uterine cavity for implantation.

Should I have IVF?

Before deciding if IVF is the right choice, it’s important to sit down with an REI specialist to discuss available treatment options. For some people, other methods such as fertility drugs, intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be the best first choice treatment. At CCRH, we believe each individual couple is unique and not everyone needs IVF.

Is the IVF procedure painful?

While not painful, the fertility medications may some side effects including headaches, hot flashes, mood swings, and bloating. The injection sites may also bruise.

Will IVF guarantee a baby?

Unfortunately, no. Many people think once they start IVF it’s a matter of time that they will be pregnant and have a baby. But according to national statistics per the Society of Assisted Reproduction (SART), on average 40% of assisted reproduction cycles achieve live births in women under age 35. The chances of success then continue to decrease with advancing age.

At CCRH, we employ only evidence-based interventions to ensure patient safety and optimal outcome. While we cannot guarantee a baby, we guarantee that you will receive the best, most advanced, personalized care to help you maximize your chance of a baby.

What is the success rate for IVF?

The average IVF success rate (success measured in live birth rate) using one’s own eggs begins to drop around age 35 and then rapidly after age 40. This is due to the decline in egg quantity and egg quality as a woman ages.

Our clinic’s success rate consistently beats the national average year after year.

Do insurance plans cover infertility treatment? How much does IVF cost?

Individual insurance plans often do not have any coverage for infertility treatments. If you have a group plan, you can call members services to see if they have coverage for infertility (including consultation/workup and IVF).

After your consultation with our REI specialist, one of our dedicated account managers with sit with you to go over the cost of treatment.

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