What Is a Semen Analysis?
A semen analysis, sometimes called a sperm count or male fertility test, is a laboratory examination of a freshly produced semen sample.
It provides information about the quantity and quality of sperm within the sample. It is commonly one of the first investigations recommended when a couple is experiencing difficulty conceiving.
Male fertility can be affected by several different factors. These include sperm production, sperm movement, ejaculation, hormone levels, previous illness, medication, lifestyle and certain medical conditions.
A semen analysis cannot guarantee or exclude the possibility of natural conception. However, it can identify findings that may affect fertility and help determine whether further assessment is needed.
What Does a Semen Analysis Measure?
A comprehensive semen analysis examines several different aspects of the sample.
These may include:
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Semen volume -
Sperm concentration
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Total sperm count
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Progressive motility
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Total motility
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Sperm morphology
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Sperm vitality, where appropriate
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Sample liquefaction and viscosity
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Other relevant laboratory observations
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Written results report
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Clinical interpretation and recommendations
No single measurement can determine fertility on its own. The results should be considered together and interpreted in the context of your medical history and individual circumstances.
Understanding Your Semen Analysis
Preparing for Your Semen Analysis
You will normally be asked to avoid ejaculation for between two and seven days before producing your sample.
A shorter or longer period of abstinence may affect the results. It is therefore important to follow the preparation instructions provided by the clinic.
Before your appointment:
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Follow the advised period of abstinence
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Avoid using ordinary lubricants when producing the sample
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Tell us about any medication or supplements you take
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Tell us if you have recently experienced a fever or significant illness
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Follow the clinic’s sample-collection and transportation instructions
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Inform us if any part of the sample is lost during collection
A recent fever or significant illness can temporarily affect sperm production. Because sperm develop over several weeks, the effect may continue after you have recovered.
Who Should Consider a Semen Analysis?
A private semen analysis may be appropriate if you:
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Have been trying to conceive without success
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Are beginning fertility investigations with your partner
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Would like an initial assessment of your reproductive health
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Have previously received an abnormal semen-analysis result
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Have undergone treatment or surgery that could affect fertility
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Have a history of testicular injury, infection or undescended testes
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Have concerns about the effects of medication or previous illness
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Are considering IVF or another assisted-conception treatment
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Have made lifestyle changes and want to reassess your results
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Want fertility testing without waiting for an NHS referral
You do not need a referral from your GP or a fertility clinic to book the test.
Our Patient Review
I was understandably very worried and was able to book an appointment within just a couple of hours. From the moment we met him, Dr Mac Sweeney was kind, reassuring, professional and genuinely caring. He took the time to listen, explained everything clearly, and made us feel that my husband was in very safe hands.
What impressed me most was that his care did not stop when we left the consultation. He followed up on several occasions to check on my husband's progress, prescribed more medicine and even went out of his way to provide a letter for our insurance company, which was incredibly helpful.
In a world where good service can sometimes feel hard to find, Dr Mac Sweeney demonstrated a level of compassion and personal attention that was truly exceptional. The fee was also very reasonable, especially given the time, care and support we received.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Dr Mac Sweeney to anyone needing medical assistance and will always be grateful for the kindness he showed to both of us. If I lived in London I would most certainly subscribe to his membership scheme so he could deal with all my family's medical needs.
The clinic has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with a fresh, calming scent that immediately creates a welcoming environment. Everything was explained clearly and professionally, making the whole experience completely stress-free.
I particularly appreciated the expert advice and felt comfortable throughout. I would highly recommend The Blackheath Clinic to anyone looking for a professional, patient-focused service.
As I entered the tastefully curated space, I encountered one of the rarest of things: a polite, smiling and genuinely welcoming receptionist. In fact, she was so warm and courteous that I briefly wondered whether I had wandered into an upmarket spa by mistake.
Then I met Dr Sweeney. He was charming, courteous, friendly and thoroughly professional, with the kind of bedside manner that reminds you what general practice can be at its best: attentive, humane and quietly confident. He came across as someone who takes real pride in his work and genuinely cares for his patients.
The whole experience felt like stepping back into a time when patients were warmly received and doctors truly doctored. As I was leaving, Dr Sweeney mentioned that he was off on a home visit. A GP doing a home visit in 2026? I was so astonished I nearly needed examining all over again.
Join this practice quickly before word gets out and the list fills up. This is care delivered by people who genuinely care, and that feels all too rare these days
I had lip filler and RRS Long Lasting skin boosters, and she took the time to explain everything clearly, answer all my questions, and ensure I felt confident about the treatments. Her attention to detail and gentle approach really stood out, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.
Dr Micha Plugaru truly combines expertise with a warm, personal touch. I would highly recommend her to anyone considering aesthetic treatments — you’re in the safest and most caring hands.
What Happens After the Test?
You will receive a report showing the measurements obtained from your sample.
Your results will be interpreted as a complete picture rather than focusing on a single figure. A result outside the laboratory reference range does not necessarily mean that natural conception is impossible.
Semen quality can vary between samples. Temporary factors such as illness, fever, medication, incomplete collection and the period of abstinence can all affect the result.
If a significant abnormality is identified, the recommendations may include:
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Repeating the semen analysis
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Reviewing medication and lifestyle factors
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Further blood or hormone testing
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Assessment by your usual GP
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Referral to an andrologist, urologist or fertility specialist
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Fertility testing for both partners
Any recommended next steps will depend on the overall results and your individual circumstances.
Why Might a Repeat Semen Analysis Be Recommended?
Semen-analysis results can vary naturally over time. One result may be affected by:
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Fever or recent illness
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Stress
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Medication
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Alcohol or recreational drug use
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Heat exposure
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The length of abstinence
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Incomplete sample collection
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Delays or difficulties in transporting the sample
If the first result is abnormal, a repeat test may be recommended before drawing firm conclusions or arranging more specialised investigations.
The appropriate timing of a repeat test will depend on the findings and any potentially reversible factors.
Private Semen Analysis – £275
Your assessment includes:
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Comprehensive semen analysis
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Sperm concentration and total sperm count
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Progressive and total motility
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Sperm morphology
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Semen volume
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Additional relevant semen parameters
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Written results report
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Clinical interpretation
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Personalised recommendations where required
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Package Price
£275
Private Male Fertility Testing in South East London
The Blackheath Clinic provides confidential male fertility testing in a professional and supportive environment.
No GP referral is required, and appointments can be booked directly.
