Male Fertility
How does male fertility develop?
The male factor plays a key role in the process of fertilization and in approximately half of the cases is also the main reason why a couple cannot conceive.
In our laboratory we provide precise, modern, and discreet sperm analysis with professional evaluation and recommendations that help optimize the chances of successful conception.
Male fertility examination - SPERM ANALYSIS
The basic male fertility examination is the sperm analysis. It is a simple, quick, and painless examination that takes only a few minutes and is performed directly at our center.
The sperm analysis evaluates: ejaculate volume, sperm count, sperm motility, sperm concentration, pH, and sperm morphology.
- 01
Booking
You book the sperm analysis in advance for a specific appointment.
Preparation for the sperm analysis:
- 2 to 3 days of sexual abstinence before the examination
- We recommend the examination at least 1 month after finishing antibiotics
- Limit smoking and alcohol consumption
- A few days before the examination, avoid saunas, hot baths, and thermal pools
02
Discreet sample collection and results
Sample collection takes place in a discreet zone in an equipped collection room. You hand the sample through a collection window - without direct contact.
We will send you the results the same day by email. You can discuss them with our andrology team, who will provide you with personalized recommendations for improving sperm quality.
Semen analysis from home
With prior arrangement, you can collect your semen sample for analysis in the comfort of your own home. To ensure reliable results for sperm concentration, motility and other semen parameters, it is important to follow the recommended collection and transport instructions carefully.
At GYN-FIV, we offer male fertility testing and semen analysis at our clinics in Bratislava, Nitra, and Žilina.
How to collect a semen sample at home
1. Book your appointment at GYN-FIV
The appointment must be arranged in advance with your coordinator or our reception desk at your chosen GYN-FIV clinic.
2. Prepare sterile collection container.
You can purchase a sterile sample container suitable for semen collection at a pharmacy or collect it at the reception at GYN-FIV.
3. Deliver the sample within 45 minutes from collection.
The time between collection and delivery of the sample is importnat to ensure the most accurate laboratory assessment.
4. Protect the sample from temperature fluctuations during the transport.
Do not expose the sample to cold, freezing temperatures, direct sunlight or excessive heat. Ideally, it should be kept close to body temperature. During colder months, you can carry it, for example, in the inner jacket pocket.
5. Arrive in the GYN-FIV clinic at your scheduled time.
Upon arrival at reception, you will provide the necessary information and pay for the examination according to the current price list.
6. Hand the sample over to our laboratory team.
Our stuff will guide you upon arrival, complete the necessary documentation, and ensure that the sample is transferred to the laboratory for anylysis.
How can I improve sperm quality?
Sperm regenerate every 75 days. Lifestyle and dietary changes can significantly improve several parameters and improve the overall sperm analysis results.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet rich in antioxidants and consider dietary supplements
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Limit cigarettes and vaporizers
- Avoid excessively hot environments (sauna, bath, heated seats, thermal pools)
- Use lubricating gels that do not damage sperm (oil-based, or specifically developed ones)
- Limit stress
What worsens sperm quality
Our lifestyle affects sperm quality and these are the main influences:
- Frequent sauna use, hot baths, heated car seats
- Excessive use of dietary supplements, medications, and hormones
- Smoking and alcohol
- Excessive exercise
- Poor diet
- Contaminated environment
- Carrying a mobile phone in trouser pockets
- Tight underwear
We need additional examinations.
The sperm analysis reveals approximately 80% of male fertility problems, which is why additional tests are also important, such as oxidative stress examination, sperm DNA fragmentation testing, and anti-sperm antibody testing.
Sperm Pack
Comprehensive male fertility examination. The Sperm Pack is designed for men who want to identify possible causes of infertility and set the right course of treatment. It is an extended ejaculate examination that can significantly help in resolving conception problems.
It includes the following 4 examinations. However, all examinations can also be taken individually.
1. Sperm DNA fragmentation testing
The quality of DNA in the sperm head is key for fertilization and healthy embryo development.
Even sperm with a normal appearance can contain damaged (fragmented) DNA, which reduces the chances of successful fertilization and increases the risk of miscarriage. The examination determines the proportion of sperm with intact DNA and helps better understand the causes of reduced fertility.
What can cause increased DNA fragmentation?
DNA fragmentation can be caused by age, infections, varicocele, chemotherapy, toxins, or an unhealthy lifestyle (smoking, stress, obesity).
2. Detection of anti-sperm antibodies in the ejaculate
These immunological antibodies are often produced as a result of a past or ongoing infection or injury. Studies suggest that up to 8% of infertile men have these antibodies in their body, which can significantly affect their fertility. In such cases, infertility can be treated using the assisted reproduction method IVF with ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection).
When is immunological testing for anti-sperm antibodies recommended?
- Idiopathic sterility (infertility of unknown origin).
- Repeatedly unsuccessful intrauterine insemination.
- In cases of male genital infections and varicocele.
- When other examinations have not revealed the cause of infertility in the couple.
This test helps better understand the causes of infertility and optimize treatment.
3. Oxidative stress testing
Increased oxidative stress causes cell damage, including sperm damage, which is why it is necessary to determine the level of oxidative stress in the ejaculate.
In cases of elevated levels, we recommend antioxidant therapy.
It can help improve sperm quality, HOWEVER this type of treatment IS NOT SUITABLE for patients with low oxidative stress. Therefore, oxidative stress testing is very important before starting this therapy.
What causes oxidative stress?
The most common triggers include:
- Chronic psychological stress
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Polluted environment and toxins (exhaust fumes, chemicals, pesticides)
- Unhealthy diet with low antioxidant content
- Lack of sleep and physical exhaustion
4. Vitality test
A high proportion of immotile but living sperm may indicate structural disorders of the flagella.
Together with necrozoospermia (presence of only dead sperm), this is a serious cause of male infertility.
Sperm vitality testing helps determine whether immotile sperm are still alive. The test is recommended when sperm motility is reduced.