Develop First Home Test to Measure Male Fertility
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed the first home test capable of measuring male fertility, with a reliability of 95 percent.
The device, called Fertell test has been developed in collaboration with the British company Genosis, reported the University of Birmingham in a statement released today.
“The test has the advantage of being easy to use. The man must enter a semen sample into the device and in an hour know if you have enough sperm to fertilize a female egg,” said Professor Chris Barratt, director of study.
The test determines the ability of fertilization of sperm to quantify the amount of sperm that manage to cross a barrier located within the device, which simulates the cervix.
The new test allows couples who are trying to conceive a child know asap if there is a potential problem of fertility.
“Today, many couples are encouraged to wait about a year before seeking medical assistance, but age can have a significant negative impact on fertility, so having reliable information as soon as may be advantageous,” said Barrat.
In his view, the fact that home is a process reduces the stress felt by many men, “who may be embarrassed by having to carry a sperm sample to a clinic.”
The test is available from this January without a prescription.
