Scientists have developed a new at-home sperm test that can assess male fertility in just 15 minutes. The test, created by Virilitas Labs, a spin-out from the University of East Anglia, employs lateral flow technology akin to that used in COVID-19 tests. It requires a single semen sample and allows men to check sperm quality without visiting a specialist clinic.
This development comes amidst growing concerns about male reproductive health. Professor Simone Immler, a professor of Genetics and Reproduction at the University of East Anglia, stated that global sperm counts have more than halved over the past 50 years. She attributes this decline to factors including climate change, increased stress, chemical additives in food, obesity, and unhealthy diets. "Male fertility and reproductive health have been ill-served until now," Professor Immler noted, adding that approximately 50 percent of fertility issues affecting one in six couples can be assigned to the male partner.
Existing male fertility tests available on the market often have limitations, according to Professor Immler. She explained that many current lateral flow devices are inaccurate and only measure a single factor, such as sperm number or motility, which is insufficient for a comprehensive assessment of male reproductive health.
The Virilitas Labs test analyzes multiple biomarkers linked to fertility and reproductive health. It is designed to be used with a smartphone app that offers personalized guidance based on lifestyle and health behaviors. The app also facilitates connections with fertility specialists for users based on their test results. Dr. Daniel Marcu, an expert in reproductive genetics at UEA, stated that the company aims to provide a clear entry point for men into fertility care, moving them from confusion to action and clinical support.
The team hopes the home test will make fertility assessment more accessible and convenient for men. Virilitas Labs is in discussions with distributors in the UK and internationally to make the kit affordable and accessible without the need for a clinical referral. The cost of the test has not yet been announced.
Common causes of male infertility include poor semen quality, characterized by low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormally shaped sperm. Other factors can include testicular damage, issues with sterilization procedures, hypogonadism, and certain medications or illicit drugs.