How to Check Your Sperm Count

At-Home Tests

Complete the test at home. At-home sperm tests have been found to be accurate around 95% of the time. Masturbate into the cup the kit provides for you and complete the test as indicated in the instructions. Read the instructions carefully beforehand so you know what to do and what not to do. Generally, you will collect your sample in a cup, transfer the sample to the testing kit after a specific amount of time, and read the results. You may also have to add another solution to the sample, but this depends on the test. Some mail-in tests have you supply a sperm sample at home and send it in for professional analysis. Others connect to a mobile app and use video for analysis. Tests like these are available at many drug stores and pharmacies.

Evaluate the results. Results are typically available in about 10 minutes, though this varies by test. A normal sperm concentration is considered to be above 15 million per milliliter. If your results are lower than that, consult your doctor for a complete infertility workup. Some tests simply tell you whether your count is normal or low. Others may be more exact. This varies by test, so read the instructions carefully.

Consult a specialist to check your sperm. At-home tests do not measure other factors that affect fertility. If you are having trouble conceiving, consider seeing a fertility specialist even if your at-home test shows normal results. At-home tests do not check: How much semen you ejaculate at one time (semen volume) The percent of your sperm that are alive (vitality) How well your sperm move (motility) The shape of your sperm (morphology)

Clinical Tests

Visit your doctor for a history and physical exam. Tell your doctor you are worried about your fertility and get an examination. They will ask you about your medical and family history and perform a physical exam. They will examine your genitals and may ask you about your sexual history and sexual development.

Schedule a semen analysis test. Semen analysis looks at a sample of your semen under a microscope. A lab technician, doctor, or computer counts how many sperm appear in the squares of a grid pattern. This is the most common sperm count test, so ask your doctor to schedule an appointment with a fertility specialist for you.

Repeat the test. Semen analysis tests are usually repeated at least twice over a period of time. This is because sperm count varies somewhat and your doctor will need an accurate representation of your sperm count over time. A second sample is usually collected one to two weeks after the first.

Collecting Samples

Masturbate into a container your doctor gives you. When it comes time to do your sperm test, your doctor will give you a special cup or container. Masturbate and catch your ejaculate in the container. Make sure to put the lid on to avoid spills. If possible, do this in the clinic. If you need to, you may be able to take the container home with you. Ask your doctor to give you specific instructions about storing the container and when to bring it back to the office.

Use a special condom made to catch semen for testing. Some clinics may be able to provide you with a special, non-lubricated condom to wear during intercourse. This condom collects your semen for examination. Some men find it easier to ejaculate this way and it may help you if you feel nervous at the doctor’s office. These may not always be available, however—ask your doctor about your options.

Avoid common pitfalls. Collecting a sperm sample can go wrong in a number of ways. Ask your doctor for specific details about how to collect an accurate sample. Follow these guidelines to the best of your ability: Shower and wash your hands before taking your sample. Do not use lubricant, which can interfere with how your sperm move. Additionally, some lubricants contain spermicide that can ruin your sample. Do not ejaculate for at least two days before you collect your sample. On the other hand, abstain for no more than 10 days before you collect your sample. Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs for 5 days prior to taking your sample. Make sure all of your ejaculate goes into the container. If you miss, wait a day and try again.