AI blood test points to new path for male fertility screening

Researchers at Toho University in Japan have developed an AI model that uses hormone levels from a blood sample to predict male infertility risk with approximately 74% accuracy. The model was trained on data from thousands of patients by correlating blood hormone profiles with semen analysis results, identifying patterns that may indicate fertility issues without requiring a semen sample.

Male infertility is typically assessed through semen analysis, which evaluates sperm count, motility, morphology and hormonal factors. A blood-based approach could make testing more convenient, support earlier detection, reduce anxiety linked to semen collection and broaden access for men who do not masturbate, including for religious reasons.

The technology remains early and needs further research, refinement and validation. ExSeed Health also highlights its at-home sperm test as an available option that uses a cloud-based, AI-driven algorithm and claims accuracy of over 95% compared to in-lab tests, with instant results and a price-per-test described as 1/4 of a private clinic visit.