When Should Men Get Tested for Fertility? A Guide to Semen Analysis

Many couples spend months wondering whether something might be wrong. In this episode, Alex explains when fertility testing is actually recommended, when it may be worth doing earlier, and how semen analysis fits into the bigger picture.We cover what the test involves, what the results can and can’t tell you, and why repeat testing is sometimes needed.This episode marks the shift from foundational lifestyle factors into the clinical side of fertility assessment.What You'll LearnWhen fertility testing is typically recommendedSituations where earlier testing may be appropriateWhat a semen analysis involvesWhat sperm concentration, motility, and morphology representWhy semen analysis is not a pass–fail testWhy results can vary and when repeat testing is neededThe limitations of semen analysis and what it doesn’t measurKey TakeawaysMale factors contribute to around 50% of infertility casesTesting men early helps build a complete fertility pictureA semen analysis is a useful first-line test, not a definitive answerResults reflect a snapshot in time and can change“Normal” results do not necessarily mean optimal fertilityTesting replaces uncertainty with useful informationPractical PointsWhen to consider testingAfter 12 months of trying without pregnancyAfter 6 months if the female partner is over 35Earlier if there are known risk factors (injury, surgery, chemotherapy, infections, hormonal issues)Or simply to reduce uncertainty and guide next stepsWhat to expectSample collected at home or pathology2–5 days abstinence beforehandLab assesses count, motility, and morphologyHow to interpret resultsNot pass–failBased on population reference rangesShould be considered alongside clinical contextBig PictureA semen analysis is a starting point.It provides useful information about sperm health, but it doesn’t capture everything, including aspects like DNA integrity or actual fertilisation potential.The goal isn’t to assign blame.It’s to gather information that helps guide decisions.And importantly, it brings men into the fertility conversation earlier, where they should have been all along.DisclaimerThis podcast is for general education only and does not replace personalised medical or healthcare advice. Always speak with your doctor or healthcare professional about your individual situation.LinksWebsite: axisdietetics.comInstagram: @axisdietetics