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Sperm DNA test
- Support your future fertility
- Lister Fertility Clinic is the UK's largest private IVF unit
- Before you start your family, visit ours
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Sperm DNA test at HCA UK
Why choose us?
We've helped bring over 23,000 babies into the world through expert, personalised fertility care. We understand how important male fertility is in your journey to parenthood, which is why we offer sperm DNA testing to assess levels of DNA damage.
Even with typical sperm counts, high DNA damage can reduce the chances of natural conception and IVF success*. This male fertility investigation helps uncover hidden causes of subfertility or miscarriage* and supports a tailored treatment plan to improve your chances of a successful pregnancy.
Even with typical sperm counts, high DNA damage can reduce the chances of natural conception and IVF success*. This male fertility investigation helps uncover hidden causes of subfertility or miscarriage* and supports a tailored treatment plan to improve your chances of a successful pregnancy.
Sperm carries half the genetic information needed to create a baby. It takes about two months for sperm to fully develop, and during that time, the DNA inside can sometimes get damaged. There are a few different ways to test for this. While research shows there may be a link between sperm DNA damage and fertility treatment outcomes, results can vary depending on the type of test used. That's why we focus on using the most trusted and well-studied tests, so you get clear answers and the right support moving forward.
Several tests for sperm integrity have been developed to assess levels of DNA damage. The one that has been most widely researched and that we have chosen to use at HCA UK is the Sperm COMET test.
No, sperm DNA testing is completely safe and non-invasive. It's done using a standard semen sample and is often carried out before treatment as an extra way to understand fertility. There are no added risks or side effects, so you can feel confident and comfortable with the process.
Yes, you can arrange to have a sperm DNA test at one of our Lister Fertility Clinics. Detailed information about the facilities offering this male fertility test can be found below.
On-site tests and procedures
Our main clinic is directly linked to our hospitals
Rapid results
All our laboratories are in-house
Fully personalised care
Dedicated support in our state-of-the-art facilities
Our locations
Where can I access a sperm DNA test?
You can arrange a sperm DNA test at four of our Lister Fertility Clinics. Each location is home to experienced male fertility specialists who offer personalised care in a calm, supportive environment.
Lister Fertility Clinic
Chelsea Bridge Road SW1W 8RH London
Lister Fertility Clinic at The Portland Hospital
First Floor 215 Great Portland Street W1W 5PN London
Lister Fertility Clinic at The Beaconsfield Clinic
Little Hall Barn Windsor End, Beaconsfield HP9 2JW Buckinghamshire
Lister Fertility Clinic at The Shard
The Shard Outpatients St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Your patient journey
Your sperm DNA test with HCA UK
From your first visit to discussing your results and next steps with your fertility consultant, we want you to feel supported and reassured every step of the way. This is a private test, carried out with care and discretion in our trusted fertility clinics.
We're always here to answer questions or talk through your options, but this guide will give you a clear idea of what to expect.
We're always here to answer questions or talk through your options, but this guide will give you a clear idea of what to expect.
01
Initial consultation
You'll have an initial consultation with your fertility specialist, who will discuss your medical history and fertility journey with you. They'll review any previous test results, such as semen analysis, and explain the sperm DNA test to you so you know what to expect. Your fertility specialist will take the time to answer any questions you may have.
02
Sperm DNA test
At your treatment appointment, we will help you prepare for the procedure. You'll be asked to provide a semen sample at the clinic. We will then send the sample for testing at our laboratory; they'll check for signs of DNA damage. The test will help us gain a clearer view of your sperm quality.
03
Follow-up appointment
Once we have your results, your fertility specialist will discuss the findings and explain what they mean. They'll also recommend the next steps, which may include treatments such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Accessing private health care
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for treatment and don’t want to wait, all of our fertility treatments can be paid for as and when you need them.
And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll provide you with a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.
Sperm DNA test FAQs
We often recommend sperm DNA testing in cases of unexplained subfertility. It can help guide treatment decisions, such as using ICSI, which has been shown to improve IVF outcomes in affected couples*.
Not at all. The test is non-invasive and involves providing a semen sample in a private, comfortable setting. There are no needles or procedures involved.
We usually recommend avoiding ejaculation for 2–5 days before the test to ensure the best quality sample. Your fertility specialist will give you clear instructions ahead of time.
You should be able to book into one of our clinics for sperm DNA testing in as little as 24 hours. Find a fertility specialist to see their next available appointments.
Not necessarily. Many people with DNA damage in their sperm go on to have successful pregnancies, especially with the right support and treatment.
Yes, you can. We have both male and female fertility consultants available, so you can schedule an appointment with someone you feel completely comfortable with.
You can see our pricelists here. For a more detailed idea of the costs, please get in touch, and we'll be able to talk you through your options.
The HFEA (Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority) inspects all our clinics to assess their compliance with regulations and standards and gives them a rating. This helps you choose a clinic based on service quality. We're proud to hold a 5/5 HFEA rating across our fertility clinics.
*Source: Bungum et al, AJA 2013
Our fertility patient stories
Alice and Aaron's fertility treatment
After being told they’d never have children, Alice and Aaron turned to the Lister Fertility Clinic. They now have a beautiful two-year-old daughter.
Jayne's IVF treatment
Jayne had been trying for 10 years to have a baby when she was diagnosed with polycystic ovaries. The Lister Fertility Clinic helped her conceive.
Family matters - Faye and Stevie's story
For Faye, 35 and Stevie, 32, a couple who are both wheelchair users, their journey to parenthood is one of resilience and love, and perfectly demonstrates the importance of inclusive fertility care.
“At no point did we feel rushed or that we couldn't ask hundreds of questions, our consultant took the time to educate us both on topics we didn't have knowledge of. He advised and helped us plan and feel so confident about our future fertility.”
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