The world's first do-it-yourself fertility test for couples is expected to go on sale in the UK this month.

Because couples often wait so long to get on the housing ladder and with age the number one factor affecting fertility, the kits debut could be a real anxiety saver.

With one in seven couples experiencing problems conceiving, and the total number in the UK estimated to be in the region of 1,750,000, the dual 'his and hers' pack will come as a welcome New Year offering from the high street chemists, Boots.

Men in particular feel embarrassed about intimate tests within a clinical environment, but with the new kit the tests can be done at home.

"All the man has to do is produce a sample, push a button and twist a switch and he will be able to assess that he has enough sperm that can swim to fertilise an egg. He will get the results in about one hour," said Professor Chris Barratt of the University of Birmingham who developed part of the kit.

The female test is a device similar to a pregnancy test kit and can give a result in 30 minutes.

With age the number one factor affecting fertility, early detection of any potential issue is an important step in helping couples to achieve their dream of having a baby. Currently, couples experiencing difficulties conceiving have to wait 12 months before undergoing doctor-led tests to pinpoint potential issues.

If the test highlights there is a potential issue, they can take the results of the test straight to their GP.

Gabby & Kenny Logan who have spent years taking tests agree. "It's a great first step that doesn't involve doctors. This test can be reassuring - if everything is OK, then you can feel relaxed about trying for a bit longer, but if it's not, you can go back to your doctor and talk about starting some tests straight away," said Gabby.

"I think it could also be useful for couples before they even start trying; this kit can let you know if there are any issues involved and whether you'd be better not putting it off at all," she added.