Male factor infertility is implicated in approximately 50% of couples experiencing difficulty conceiving, yet it remains significantly under-investigated compared to female fertility investigations. A semen analysis is the most important and informative first test for any man wanting to understand his fertility, and it is far simpler and less invasive than it is often assumed to be. The full process is sample provision in a private room at the clinic, followed by laboratory analysis, followed by results and a clinical conversation. There is no examination, no procedure, no needle. For couples who’ve been trying to conceive without success, getting a semen analysis early often saves months of unnecessary female-side investigations.
MEN'S HEALTH · GLASGOW
Semen analysis, WHO 2021 standards.
Comprehensive male fertility testing performed to World Health Organisation 2021 reference criteria, the international gold-standard for clinical semen analysis. Detailed assessment of all key parameters (count, motility, morphology, volume, pH, and infection markers) with a doctor's interpretation included and results delivered within 24 hours. Your test and results remain entirely separate from your NHS records.
WHO 2021 standard
Doctor consultation included
Results within 24 hours
From
£150
full analysis · DNA fragmentation add-on available
OUR APPROACH TO SEMEN ANALYSIS
A test that's far simpler than most men assume.
Why male factor matters more than couples often expect.
Why we test to WHO 2021 standards.
The World Health Organisation publishes the international reference criteria used by clinical laboratories to interpret semen analysis. The 6th edition of these criteria, published in 2021, is the current gold standard. Some private testing services still use the older WHO 2010 criteria, and many home-test kits use simplified assessments that don’t meet either standard. Our analysis is performed to the full WHO 2021 reference criteria, with detailed assessment of all key parameters and Kruger morphology grading. The result is a clinical-grade report comparable to what you’d receive from any specialist fertility laboratory, accompanied by a doctor’s interpretation explaining what your results mean for you specifically.
WHAT WE ASSESS
Seven parameters, plus advanced options.
A WHO 2021-standard semen analysis covers all the parameters that matter clinically for understanding male fertility. Each is measured, reported, and interpreted by a doctor. Where indicated by your specific situation or initial findings, advanced testing including DNA fragmentation analysis is available as an add-on.
01
Total sperm count and concentration.
The number of sperm per millilitre and total in the ejaculate. The most commonly cited fertility parameter, with WHO 2021 reference values clearly defined.
02
Persistent dull ache or heaviness in the scrotum.
The proportion of sperm moving forward in a directional fashion (progressive motility) versus all moving sperm (total motility). Among the most clinically meaningful parameters for fertility assessment.
03
Sperm morphology (Kruger criteria).
The proportion of sperm with normal size and shape, assessed using strict Kruger criteria. Provides important information beyond count and motility about fertilisation potential.
04
Semen volume and liquefaction.
Total ejaculate volume and the time taken for the sample to liquefy. Both can affect fertility independently of sperm parameters and indicate accessory gland function.
05
pH and viscosity.
The acidity-alkalinity balance and physical viscosity of the semen. Abnormal values can suggest infection, ductal obstruction, or other underlying conditions.
06
White blood cell count (infection markers).
Elevated white blood cells in semen can indicate genital tract infection, which can affect fertility independently of sperm production. Identifying this directs appropriate treatment.
07
DNA fragmentation index (available as add-on).
Advanced testing that assesses the integrity of the genetic material within sperm. Increasingly recognised as important in cases of unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarriage, or where conventional parameters appear normal but conception has failed.
Sample provision
A private room at the clinic. 2 to 5 days of abstinence beforehand.
Samples are provided in a private, comfortable room at our clinic. We recommend 2 to 5 days of abstinence prior to the test for the most accurate results. A full preparation guide is provided when you book, covering everything you need to know about timing, what to bring, and what to expect during the visit. The sample provision itself is straightforward and the appointment slot allows for it without rush. Results follow within 24 hours of analysis, with a doctor's consultation included to discuss findings.
WHY HEALTH3 MEDICALS
Same-day medical assessments,
properly certified.
Health3 provides the medical assessments and screening services that working life, regulatory bodies, and personal health needs require. OGUK and DVLA D4 medicals, immigration assessments, sexual health screening, and therapeutic phlebotomy – all delivered by qualified medical practitioners, with same-day completion and certification where possible. Fast turnaround, properly documented, professionally handled.
✓Same-day appointments and certification
✓Approved practitioners and accredited clinic
✓All required tests in a single appointment
✓Confidential records, separate from NHS
✓Documentation correctly formatted for submission
✓Direct clinical follow-up where indicated
WHY HEALTH3 MEDICALS
Same-day medical assessments,
properly certified.
Health3 provides the medical assessments and screening services that working life, regulatory bodies, and personal health needs require. OGUK and DVLA D4 medicals, immigration assessments, sexual health screening, and therapeutic phlebotomy - all delivered by qualified medical practitioners, with same-day completion and certification where possible. Fast turnaround, properly documented, professionally handled.
✓Same-day appointments and certification
✓Approved practitioners and accredited clinic
✓All required tests in a single appointment
✓Confidential records, separate from NHS
✓Documentation correctly formatted for submission
✓Direct clinical follow-up where indicated
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS