A fertility journey can be an expensive endeavor. From appointments with specialists to various tests, the cost of sperm testing can really stack up – and that’s even before you start thinking about potential assisted fertility treatments. At ExSeed we’re on a mission to make sperm testing more accessible and more affordable, so here we’ll break down the actual cost of sperm testing and the financial benefits of going it alone at home.
Wait, can’t I get my sperm checked through the NHS?
It is possible to get your sperm tested on the NHS for free – but there are limitations to consider. Generally speaking, to get a semen analysis on the NHS you will have to be referred to a specialist by your GP. Most doctors will only refer you for fertility testing if you have been trying to conceive for over a year and a baby is yet to make an appearance. This is because most couples will conceive after a year of trying, but if you are eager to get started with your baby making plans – or maybe you are concerned about your age – a year is a long time to wait with no clarity on your situation.
Once you get referred, there could also be a wait to get booked in with an NHS-funded fertility clinic, and even once you have done your test, you will often have to wait around a week to get your results. All of this waiting is not only frustrating, but it also means you’re missing out on valuable time that could be used to get started on lifestyle changes that could improve your chances of conceiving.
Whilst for some people the benefit of free sperm testing outweighs the risk of waiting around, if you are in a financial position to get proactive, it’s the best thing you can do for your fertility chances.
How much do private sperm tests cost?
If you want to speed the process up, there is the option to go private. Many private fertility clinics around will gladly help you get tested, but the costs involved might put you off.
In the UK, private sperm testing at a clinic can cost anywhere between £130 and £200. And the important part – that’s per test. If you need to go back for multiple check-ins or want to track your progress if you are on a mission to improve your sperm health, you could end up spending hundreds of pounds to get a look at your swimmers. There are also sometimes hidden costs involved – like charging you extra to get a video of your sperm cells in action or even charging you extra to visit the clinic in the evenings or at the weekend. So, unless you fancy nipping out to give your sample on your lunch break, your bills could stack up even higher.
Whilst these tests are undoubtedly top-class, it doesn’t mean they are fully comprehensive. Most initial semen analysis tests don’t look at factors like DNA Fragmentation. This might not be something you require, but if you do you could be looking at an extra £400 on top!
Cost of at-home male fertility testing
When we created ExSeed, it was all about making sperm testing more accessible – and that also means more affordable.
Our tests come in packages of 2, 5 and 10 – meaning whatever price you pay, you have the opportunity to test your sperm health multiple times. Our most popular package is the 5-test pack, and at £149.99 that works out to £29.99 per test. That’s more than 75% cheaper than even the cheapest test you can get from a fertility clinic!
Other benefits of testing your sperm health at home
Aside from the obvious financial benefits of at-home sperm testing, there are other upsides as well.
You don’t need to take time out of your day to visit a clinic, as you can do the sample in the comfort of your own home and then get your results directly to your smartphone. You also won’t be waiting for weeks, or have to chase up doctors, to get your results. They’re available in minutes and you’ll get a full fertility report direct to the app, covering sperm motility, count and volume – culminating in a serious simple Total Motile Sperm Count reading of ‘Normal’ or ‘Below Normal’.
Our laboratory-grade semen analysis is not only accurate, but it also comes verified by our expert science team, who can also give you tailored advice on how to improve your sperm health if it’s not where you want it to be.
So, at-home sperm testing can not only save you money but save you time – which on a fertility journey is something you can’t put a price on.
Click to learn more about our at-home test and order yours today.