Andrology/Sperm Lab

A semen analysis is used to evaluate the quantity and quality of sperm in a given semen sample. The criteria we use (Kruger/Strict criteria) for a normal semen analysis are a concentration of 20,000,000 or greater sperm per mL, a volume of 1 to 6 mL, normal motility in at least 40% or more of the sperm, and a normal shape in at least 18% of the sperm. If these criteria are fulfilled, then sperm production is considered normal. It should be noted that medication, drugs, extremes of temperature, or viral illness within the past two months could affect the results of the semen testing. Therefore, it is best to take this test while you are well and not taking medication. If you regularly take any medication, ask your doctor about its possible effect on your semen testing. For all testing, please use the specimen cup provided by the clinic. Complete the label provided and include the following information:

1. Husband's name and social security number
2. Wife's name
3. Date and time of collection
4. Procedure (i.e., IUI, semen analysis, antisperm Ab, sperm banking)

Make sure the entire ejaculate is collected, the lid is tight, and the label is placed on the cup (not the lid). Put the cup in the specimen bag or a brown paper bag. The evaluation of the specimen depends upon the sample being properly collected. Please follow these instructions closely:

A Semen Analysis is obtained with a semen specimen freshly collected by masturbation in a sterile cup that the office provides. Please make sure the entire sample is collected. The male should abstain from intercourse or ejaculation for at least 2 days, but no more than 5 days, prior to the day of collection. The sample may be obtained in our office in a private room or it can be brought from home if the time from collection to arrival in our laboratory is less than 1 hour. Keep the sample at body temperature during transportation (i.e., tuck inside your shirt in cold weather; do not refrigerate or heat). Please do not use lubricant, saliva, or a condom when collecting the specimen. Please call at least 24 hours in advance (720.848.1690) to set up an appointment. The patient is responsible for providing the staff with a physician’s order at the time of collection. Please remember to bring the physician’s order on a prescription or a stamped lab sheet with you so the sample can be evaluated.

Antisperm Antibody Testing: Instructions for collecting the sample are the same as those above.

Sperm Banking (Freezing): Patients can provide specimens Monday through Friday by appointment only. Please call 720.848.1690 to schedule the appointment. Specimens for banking should be collected by masturbation with at least 48 hours of abstinence.

Sperm Preparation for Insemination (IUI): A nurse or physician will notify the couple of the appropriate time to perform an insemination (IUI). There are many techniques for timing inseminations and the method utilized is based on the couple's infertility diagnosis. Samples for IUI should be collected at home in a sterile cup that is provided by our office. If you live more than 1 hour away from the Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion, you may need to collect the sample in a private room at the office; discuss this with one of our nurses or physicians. The couple should have intercourse 24-48 hours prior to the IUI and then abstain until after the insemination. Intercourse prior to the insemination improves the quality of the sample inseminated. Please make sure to make an appointment at 8:00 a.m. to drop off the sample and an appointment between 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. for the IUI procedure.

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