Detailed Instructions for Male Factor Evaluation
Scheduling Male Factor Evaluation
- Please call the above number to schedule a date and time for semen collection. Please be on time for your appointment. We cannot accept drop-ins.
- It is important that you abstain from ejaculation for 1-3 days before the collection. Longer abstinence intervals, particularly 10 days or more, may affect the test results. You will be asked to write the date of your previous ejaculation on the label of the specimen container, so please keep that in mind. Avoid hot tubs, saunas and long hot baths for two weeks before the test as high temperature reduces sperm production. Please note that the motility test requires several hours for completion while the morphology test is done over several days.
- Please bring a photo ID with you.
Semen Collection Instructions
The label needs to be filled out completely before collection. Write your name, your partner’s name, date of last ejaculate and today’s date. Time should be filled out only after collection is completed. Please affix the label to the specimen container itself, not on the lid. A member of our staff will ask for a photo ID and check that the label is filled out completely. If you have any questions, please ask.
- Please wash your hands and penis before collection. Retract foreskin if present. It is important to make sure that there is no clothing lint, loose hair or other debris on your hands or penis.
- Semen specimens are collected by masturbation. It is preferable not to use a lubricant. If necessary, you may use the lubricant (PreSeed) which is provides. Most other lubricants (K-Y Jelly, Vaseline, soap) are toxic to sperm and should not be used.
- Collect the entire specimen into the cup without touching the inside of the cup. If part of the ejaculate spills, do not scoop it up into the cup. Wipe off the spill and discard the paper towel. Please report it as incomplete collection.
- Please screw the lid onto the cup securely and set the container deep on the shelf above the sink. Exit the collection room and notify a staff member that you are done collecting. Please do not leave the office until a staff member has accepted your specimen cup and verified your identity.