Superdrug launches first male fertility service on the high street

Say it with us: fertility is not a women’s issue.

It’s estimated that 7% of men in the UK are impacted by infertility and for the one in seven heterosexual relationships dealing with fertility issues, it’s just as likely to be due to male infertility as female infertility. 

Today marks the third day of National Fertility Awareness Week and the start of Men’s Health Awareness Month.

It’s also #HIMfertility day – a day dedicated to raising awareness about male fertility issues.

And now, Superdrug have launched the UK’s first male infertility service on the high street.

The aim is to help people access information about their fertility, in allowing them to take greater control of their reproductive health.

The testing service consists of a clinical grade sperm test, comparable to a World Health Organisation or NHS test, and accepted by most fertility treatments.

The services also offers a clinical grade semen analysis, which uses ‘state of the art’ AI microscopes. 

Results analyse 22 different parameters, including morphology – the size and shape of sperm. 

The discreet, at-home test kit can be picked up in store and taken at home. 

The sample will then be picked up by a courier and results will be available after 48 hours after the lab receives it. 

A full diagnostic report will be provided, which can be used for onward referrals or reviews with a fertility specialist.  

Superdrug’s male fertility tests include:

• The volume of semen
• The motility of sperm, which is how fast and efficiently sperm can move
• The quantity of sperm, which is the concentration and total number of spermatozoa (the cells that carry a man’s genetic material)
• The quality of sperm, telling how many of them look normal and how many abnormal

If a test detects an abnormality, Superdrug Online Doctors can provide further advice on improving sperm quality or where to get further advice and support.

Dr Babak Ashrafi, from Superdrug Online Doctor, said: ‘With the decline in male fertility across society, and with the NHS advising that people see a GP if they have not managed to conceive after 12 months of trying for a baby, a year can make a difference to fertility levels so the sooner you know, the sooner you can act. 

‘This is a discrete and convenient service and for people trying to conceive, these test results may help provide answers and signpost them in the right direction.’

Caris Newson, Healthcare Director at Superdrug, added: ‘At Superdrug, we are passionate about helping people make the right health choices for them and fertility is no different. 

‘Expanding our fertility testing services to biologically male patients means that we are now able to make it as convenient as possible for everyone to get professional advice and support and have a more informed understanding of their fertility.’

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