You may want to have a semen analysis if you're having trouble getting pregnant.Semen analyses measure the amount and quantity of a man's sperm.In order for the results of the analysis to be reliable, there are certain precautions you have to take.
Step 1: Before you collect your sample, refrain from ejaculating for a few days.
At the time of the sample, your sperm count and sperm mobility should be at optimal levels.Don't stop ejaculating for more than 5 days.You don't have to avoid sexual activity completely.You have to refrain from ejaculating in this time period.
Step 2: Inform the doctor of any drugs you are taking.
Sperm analysis values may be affected by prescription drugs and herbal medicines.Your doctor or lab technician will be able to tell you if you need to stop taking these medications.In the days leading up to your sperm sample, you may be asked not to drink or take drugs.St. John's Wort and cimetidine are some of the medications that may affect test results.
Step 3: Pick up a clean container from the lab to collect your sample.
To get accurate results, your sample must be deposited in a sealed container.If you want to store your sample in an alternative container, use a sealable plastic bag.You can probably get a means of transporting the container with the sample from the lab.When returning your sample to the lab, be sure to ask what precautions you have to take.
Step 4: You have one hour to return your sample.
If the sample is more than an hour old, sperm mobility will have decreased so much that it can't be reliably analyzed.It's important to plan the production and delivery of your sample around a specific appointment time.It is important to consider traffic and the time it will take to reach the lab when planning sample production.
Step 5: Prepare by washing your hands and penis.
When cleaning yourself, don't use soap or oils.Water can get into your sample if your hands and penis are dry.The lab can provide cleaning wipes or towelettes that are safe to use.
Step 6: Use masturbation to obtain the sample.
It is unreliable to analyze a sample if it is contaminated with Lubricants, gels, or even saliva.Do not use spermicide as a masturbatory aid or collect your sample in a condom.If you need a condom that won't kill the sperm in the sample, the lab may be able to give you one.Seal the condom with the provided twist tie and put it in the container.
Step 7: The container's contents should not be interfered with after.
If you place your fingers inside the container, it will interfere with the analysis results.If pubic hair or clothing thread falls into the container, inform the lab technician about it when you turn in your sample.The lab can remove the hair or thread with a sanitized tool that won't affect the test results.
Step 8: Put the container in a plastic bag.
If you want the best results, seal the container as soon as possible.If the lab didn't give you a bag for storing the container, place it upright in a plastic bag and keep it close to your body.
Step 9: You can write your name, date of birth, and time of sample on the container.
If the ink gets wet, write this information with a pen or marker.Make sure the time of sample is accurate, as incorrect information can lead to unreliable test results.You may be asked to provide additional information, such as the number of days of abstinence that preceded the sample.
Step 10: Keep the container close to your body by bringing it back within an hour.
As you bring the sample back to the lab, keep it as close to body temperature as possible.Don't allow it to be exposed to high temperatures.It is harder to keep the sample warm in a purse or briefcase.If you weren't given a special heat-retaining transport bag, your best bet is to place the container as close to your body as possible.
Step 11: Inform the lab staff if the sample was lost.
It is important to let the lab technician know if your sample is missing the richest part of the ejaculate.If semen is spilled, don't try to put it back in the container yourself.The sample will be inadvertently contaminated by this.