Sperm Assessment Service
Starting a family is an exciting journey, but challenges may arise along the way. Male infertility is a key factor in nearly 40% of couples experiencing difficulty conceiving. If you’re planning for a baby, a semen assessment is a crucial step in understanding your fertility health and taking control of your reproductive journey.
In our clinic, we use a number of tests to assess sperm.
They are:
- Semen Assessment for ART (for the purposes of Artificial Reproductive Technology).
- Hyaluronic Binding Assay.
- And (where indicated) tests for Retrograde Ejaculation.
1. Semen Assessment for ART
In nature, the most suitable sperm is selected by swimming through the cervical mucus, filtering seminal plasma, and selecting out suboptimal sperm. In our lab, we wash, concentrate and clean up semen so that the final selection can be assessed on the best treatment option for the patient. This may be IUI (intrauterine insemination), IVF or ICSI . You may call it that we simulate what happens in nature (FILTERING VIA CERVICAL MUCUS) in our lab.
By doing this assessment, we try to find the optimal method to use for fertilisation and maximise the chances of successful fertilisation. Hence, our patients can avoid unnecessary ART cycles.

2. Hyaluronic Binding Assay Test or Index
The Hyaluronan Binding Assay (HBA) is a specialised technique that assesses sperm maturity and fertility.
How it works
The HBA uses hyaluronan-coated chambers to analyse a sperm sample. Hyaluronic acid binds to mature sperm that have intact acrosomes( the part of the sperm that binds to the egg) and normal morphology. The proportion of sperm that binds to hyaluronan is called the HBA index.
What it indicates
A low HBA index indicates a low number of mature sperm, which could be a sign of infertility. A sample with an HBA index of at least 80% is considered to have normal maturity and function.
How it’s used
The HBA can be used to help assess male infertility, predict sperm performance, and determine the best treatment options for patients. For example, the HBA can help decide whether to treat a patient with conventional IVF or ICSI.
How it’s performed
To perform the HBA, 10 µl of semen is added to the center of the HBA chamber and covered with a Cell-Vu grid cover slip.

3. Retrograde Ejaculation Assay
Sometimes, sperm is absent in the ejaculate.
A Retrograde Ejaculation Assay involves a physical exam, a medical history review, and a urine sample taken after ejaculation:
Urine sample: A patient will provide a urine sample immediately after ejaculation. The sample will be analysed for the presence of sperm and fructose. If sperm is present, the sample will also be checked for sperm concentration, motility, and morphology.
A retrograde ejaculation assay can help determine if a patient is producing sperm in their urine, which may allow them to have a child through assisted reproduction.
Contact us to discuss the best assessment for your specific needs.
Retrograde Ejaculation
Retrograde ejaculation occurs when semen enters the bladder instead of being expelled normally. It can be caused by diabetes, prostate surgery, lymph node removal, or spinal cord injuries.
A retrograde ejaculation test is a medical procedure used to identify retrograde ejaculation, a condition where semen enters the bladder instead of being expelled through the urethra during ejaculation.
Retrograde ejaculation can be caused by various factors, including:
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, prostate surgery, lymph node removal, or spinal cord injuries.
- Medication Side Effects: Certain medications can affect the nerves and muscles involved in ejaculation.
Why is the assessment important?
A retrograde ejaculation test can help determine if a patient is producing sperm. If sperm is present in the urine, it may be possible to retrieve it through a medical procedure and use it for assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
The Sperm Assessment Process
The assessment typically involves:
- Physical Exam: We will conduct a physical exam to assess for any underlying medical conditions and review your medical history, including any surgeries or medical conditions that may affect ejaculation.
- Urine Sample Analysis
- Sperm Presence: The urine sample is analysed to check for the presence of sperm.
- Sperm Quality: If sperm is detected, its concentration, motility, and morphology will be assessed.
Physical Examination
To understand your fertility comprehensively, our fertility doctor may suggest a physical examination to check for any underlying issues such as undescended testicles, testicular size and the presence of tubes running from the testicles.
Why Choose Family Fertility for Your Male Fertility Assessment?
At Family Fertility, we understand that fertility challenges can be a sensitive and emotional journey. That’s why we’re committed to providing compassionate care and personalised attention to every patient.
We take the time to listen to your unique concerns and aspirations. Whether you’re struggling with infertility, seeking advice on family planning, or exploring advanced fertility treatments, our experienced team is here to support you.
Our caring approach ensures that you receive:
Compassionate Care
Our compassionate team is here to support you throughout your fertility journey, offering emotional support and guidance.
Comprehensive Consultations
We dedicate ample time to understanding your medical history, lifestyle factors, and emotional well-being.
Accurate Evaluation
We utilise most recent tools and techniques to accurately assess your fertility and identify any underlying issues. Samples are analysed within one hour to achieve precise and reliable results.
Fast Results
Receive results the next working day.
Tailored Treatment Plans
We develop highly personalised treatment plans that address your specific needs and maximise your chances of success.
Discreet, Confidential and Convenient Sperm Sample Collection
Our experienced staff is committed to providing a discrete, comfortable, supportive atmosphere. Your comfort is our priority – choose between the privacy of our on-site collection room or the convenience of home sample collection.
Do you need assistance with your home sample collection? Free, non-toxic lubricants or condoms are provided to ensure a comfortable and discreet process.
Comprehensive & Caring Support Dedicated to Help you on Your Fertility Journey:
- Latest Technology: Our state-of-the-art laboratory utilises cutting-edge technology to deliver accurate and reliable results.
- Dedicated Team: Our highly skilled embryology team provides accurate and timely results from years of experience.
- Expert Interpretation: Our Certified Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (CREI) Specialist will interpret your results and provide personalised advice about the next steps.
- Accredited annually by RTAC, ensuring consistent, high-quality clinic performance.
Preparing for Your Assessment
To ensure optimal results, follow these guidelines:
- Abstain from ejaculation.
- Avoid sexual activity or masturbation for 2-5 days before your assessment.
- Use the provided container: Only use the sterile container supplied by our clinic.
- Maintain temperature: Keep the sample at body temperature – don’t refrigerate or expose it to heat.
- Label your sample: Mark your container with your name, date of birth, and collection time.
- Timely delivery: If collecting at home, deliver your sample to the lab within one hour.

Your Partner in Fertility
To ensure the best possible outcomes, our fertility experts may suggest preconception screening (blood tests) to check for chromosomal abnormalities. If needed, we can explore advanced genetic testing options, including Pre-implantation Genetic Testing.
Male Fertility Assessment: The Bigger Picture
Did you know? Male infertility is often caused by issues such as low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology. Testing both partners is essential for identifying potential challenges early and creating a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Understanding your fertility is the first step toward achieving your dream of parenthood. Contact us to schedule your semen assessment with one of our specialists today.
Contact Us
Contact us for an appointment today.