Sperm Testing: What It Measures and Why It Matters in Fertility

When couples start trying to conceive, attention often goes straight to the woman’s hormones, cycle, egg quality and overall health.

But here’s the truth: male fertility contributes to 50% of conception success.

Why Sperm Testing Matters

Sperm health isn’t just about count. Healthy sperm need to:

• Be produced in healthy numbers

• Swim efficiently

• Have normal shape and structure

• Protect their DNA

• Interact correctly with cervical mucus and the egg

Because sperm regenerate every 72–90 days, testing early gives men the chance to improve their fertility significantly in a short timeframe.

What a Standard Semen Analysis Measures

A comprehensive semen analysis looks at several key parameters:

1. Sperm Count

How many sperm are present in the sample (per mL and total).
Low sperm count = fewer sperm available to reach and fertilise the egg.

2. Motility (Movement)

The percentage of sperm that can swim forward effectively.
Good motility is essential for sperm to reach the egg.

3. Morphology (Shape)

Assesses how many sperm have a normal structure (head, midpiece, tail).
Poor morphology can impair fertilisation and embryo development.

4. Volume of Ejaculate

Low volume can reduce the total number of sperm and affect semen viscosity.

Who Should Get a Sperm Test?

Sperm testing is recommended when:

• You’ve been trying to conceive for 6–12 months

• There is female-factor fertility history or unknown cause infertility

• You’re planning IVF or ICSI

• There has been miscarriage or chemical pregnancy

• There is high stress, poor sleep, smoking/vaping, heat exposure, heavy training, or low libido
  

It’s can also recommended before starting a 3-month pre-conception plan so baseline improvements can be tracked.

What Affects Sperm Test Results?

Daily habits have a significant impact on sperm parameters:

• Stress and cortisol

• Smoking, vaping & alcohol

• High caffeine intake

• Poor sleep

• Obesity or insulin resistance

• Exposure to plastics, pesticides and toxins

• Frequent heat exposure (saunas, hot tubs, laptops on lap)

• Low intake of antioxidants and omega-3s

• Intense endurance training

• High inflammation or infection

Final Thoughts

Sperm testing is simple, affordable, and incredibly insightful.
Instead of guessing or assuming everything is “fine,” a semen analysis gives clarity helping couples make informed decisions and improve their chances of conceiving naturally or through IVF.

Book an appointment to organise sperm testing, then interpret them properly, and build a 90-day plan tailored to both partners.