at-home sperm testing and global sperm count decline

How to Test Male Fertility at Home

Wondering if you or your partner can become a father? You can discreetly or mutually test male fertility using sperm testing kits, which are widely available globally and easy to use at home. In Nepal, kits like Fertio-K are sold in pharmacies.

 What’s Inside the Kit?

• Instruction manual
• Sample collection container
• Solution bottle
• Sample transfer tools
• Testing device

 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Collect the semen sample in the container.
2. Let it settle for 20 minutes.
3. Use the transfer tool (like a syringe) to draw the sample without air bubbles.
4. Transfer it into the solution bottle and shake gently 10 times.
5. Place three drops into the test kit.
6. After a short wait:
   • Two red lines on C and D → Fertile sperm, likely able to father a child.
   • One line on C only → Low sperm count; fatherhood is possible but consult a health professional.
   • One line on D only → Invalid test or infertility; further lab testing is recommended.

Note: These results are not 100% conclusive. If in doubt, seek professional lab testing.

Global Decline in Sperm Count: 5 Major Causes

A joint study by Hebrew University (Israel) and Mount Sinai School of Medicine (USA) revealed that average sperm count has dropped by 51% over the past 50 years. In 1970, men had around 101 million sperm per milliliter; today, it’s down to 49 million. Not only quantity but also quality and motility have declined.

Key Causes of Decline:

1. Obesity
   • Excess fat disrupts testosterone production and increases oxidative stress.
   • Fat around the genitals raises temperature, harming sperm production.
   • WHO reports 39% of men are overweight, 11% are obese.
2. Substance Abuse
   • Alcohol, tobacco, vaping, marijuana, cocaine, and anabolic steroids damage sperm-producing cells.
   • Steroid use for muscle gain suppresses natural testosterone, reducing sperm count.
3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
   • Infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV cause inflammation in the epididymis, affecting sperm storage and DNA.
4. Laptop Use on Lap
   • Heat from devices raises scrotal temperature, impairing sperm production.
   • Long hot baths and saunas also pose risks.
   • Electromagnetic waves (Wi-Fi, mobile signals) may affect sperm, though more research is needed.
5. Endocrine Disruptors
   • Chemicals in plastics, pesticides, and pollutants mimic hormones and interfere with sperm development.
   • Their full impact is still under study.