Andrology Training Guide
The ARCS Andrology Training Guides are ideal for anyone working in an Andrology clinical setting. They can be completed by a Reproductive Technologist or Practitioner in an Andrology or Embryology laboratory or Biomedical Scientists working in a district general hospital pathology laboratory, as evidence of competence, or as part of a training portfolio to demonstrate competence in support of an application for state registration. It provides excellent evidence of the extent of an individuals training and knowledge in the field of Andrology.
They are assessed externally by a competent ARCS assessor, covering diagnostic semen analysis, preparation of samples for therapeutic use, cryopreservation and the processing of both patients and donors prior to cryopreservation as well as a training course on the safe use of Liquid Nitrogen. These guides can be completed individually as required, or as a complete set. Read more detail about the individual modules below:
Andrology 1: Diagnostic Andrology
Diagnostic Andrology is the largest of the andrology training guides, taking up to 2 years to complete, and covers everything regarding diagnostic semen analysis, from setting up a laboratory and creating an appropriate sample collection form, right through to how to perform concentration, motility and morphology assessments, and report results. The training combines theoretical learning with practical exercises designed to demonstrate why certain methods have been selected as best practice and to promote reflective learning. Case studies at the end pull together knowledge gained from the different areas covered during the training, reflecting real life scenarios that an Andrologist may encounter from day to day. Final completion of the training guide is demonstrated by a face-to-face viva, after which successful candidates will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Andrology 2: Therapeutic Sperm Preparation
The aim of this training guide is to provide the healthcare scientist with the means of acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge for the processing of sperm with the primary aim of using them in assisted reproduction technologies (ART). The learning included within relies heavily on the individual having already gained competence in the preceding standards for diagnostic semen analysis. The first part of the training guide contains background material explaining the importance of preparing sperm to the highest standards and describes some basic methodology currently recommended by ARCS and the World Health Organisation (2021). Following this are practical exercises to illustrate the effect that variations in methodology have on the outcome of sperm preparation, followed by specific questions aimed at improving background knowledge and ensuring that any risks (safety, regulatory, quality) associated with sperm preparation are fully appreciated. Please note that to complete these exercises satisfactorily you must already be competent in basic semen analysis.
After completion of this training the candidate should be able to:
- Carry out and understand the basic methods of sperm preparation (Sperm washing, Sperm swim-up and Density gradient centrifugation)
- Tailor the sperm preparation to the condition, quality and amount of sample
- Use sperm preparation as a diagnostic tool
- Use additional technical steps required for preparing sperm for ART
- Understand the risks and regulatory requirements associated with sperm preparation
Trainees are expected to complete this module within a 6-12 months. Completion is demonstrated by a face-to-face viva, after which successful candidates will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Andrology 3: Sperm Cryopreservation
The aim of this training guide is to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills required for the successful cryopreservation of sperm or testicular tissue with the primary aim that they be used in ART. The learning included relies heavily on the individual having already gained competence in the preceding standards for diagnostic semen analysis and to an extent (although not essential) the standards for therapeutic sperm preparation. The individual is encouraged to develop their own practical skills and to reflect on their current practice. In addition, they should consider the evidence to support the use of current methods in sperm cryopreservation, suggest how improvements may be made, and to assess local risk.
After the completion of this training, each candidate should be able to:
- Carry out and understand the basic methods of sperm cryopreservation
- Tailor the cryopreservation method to sample quality and future treatment
- Process cryopreserved sperm for treatment
- Understand the basic cryobiology underpinning current methods
- Understand the limitations of sperm cryopreservation
- Understand the risks and regulatory requirements associated with cryopreservation
Trainees are expected to complete this module within a 6-12 months. Completion is demonstrated by a face-to-face viva, after which successful candidates will receive a Certificate of Completion.
| Module Name | Time to Complete | Pricing |
| Module 1: Diagnostic Semen Analysis
|
2 years | £500 |
| Module 2: Sperm Preparation for Diagnosis or Therapeutic Intervention
|
6 – 12 mths | £500 |
| Module 3: Sperm Cryopreservation in Assisted Reproduction
|
6 – 12 mths | £500 |
| Module 4: Client processing for fertility preservation (sperm banking)
|
£500 | |
| Module 5: Client processing for sperm donation
|
£500 |
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