Consumer Health: Is a home sperm test useful?

Male infertility is due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Many factors can cause male infertility, including illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems and lifestyle choices.

Sperm count — the number of sperm in the fluid, or semen, ejaculated during an orgasm — is one measurement evaluated in diagnosing male infertility. A normal sperm count, however, doesn’t tell you whether you’re fertile. And home sperm tests only determine sperm concentration. Many common causes of male infertility are missed by home sperm tests.

Learn more about the limitations of home sperm tests from Dr. Todd Nippoldt, a Mayo Clinic endocrinologist.