How to prepare for and collect a semen analysis sample
Sperm health contributes to about half of all infertility cases, making a semen analysis one of the first and most important fertility tests. Proper semen analysis collection helps ensure accurate results. Here’s what you’ll need, how to collect your sample, and what to expect before your appointment.
What a semen analysis measures
A standard semen analysis evaluates several factors:
- Volume: the total amount of fluid in the sample
- Concentration: how many sperm are present per milliliter of semen
- Motility: the percentage that are moving, and how well
- Morphology: the shape and structure of the sperm
Together, these give our team a picture of sperm health. Results can vary from sample to sample, and your provider will help you interpret what your numbers actually mean.
Can I collect my semen analysis sample at home?
In many cases, yes. If your provider instructs you to collect your sample at home, follow the collection and transportation guidelines below to help ensure accurate results.
What container should be used for a semen analysis sample?
You’ll need a sterile, dry polypropylene container with a lid. A sterile urine specimen container also works.
We recommend obtaining your collection container from your Shady Grove Fertility office before the day of your appointment. Container pickup procedures and availability may vary by location, so contact your local office for instructions.
How to collect your sample
Follow these guidelines carefully. Each one affects the quality and reliability of your results.
- Before you begin: While the guidance below reflects our general recommendations, collection procedures, timing, and sample drop-off requirements may vary by location. Follow any instructions provided by your care team or local office.
- Collect through masturbation only. Withdrawal during intercourse and oral stimulation are not acceptable collection methods. If needed, a special non-lubricated collection condom is available at the SGF front desk. Follow the instructions for transferring the sample into the container before your appointment.
- Abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 7 days before your appointment. This window helps ensure the sample reflects your typical production. Too little abstinence can lower the count; too much can reduce motility.
- Do not use lotions, liquids, or lubricants. Even products that seem mild can interfere with sperm motility and affect your results.
- Collect no more than 2 hours before your appointment. Keep the lid securely fastened, transport the container upright, and shield it from extreme heat or cold.
How to transport and drop-off a semen sample
- The sperm-producing person must deliver the sample in person. It cannot be dropped off or checked in by anyone else.
- Bring a photo ID. Our andrology staff will ask to see it when you hand off your sample.
Factors that can affect semen analysis results
Sperm production is sensitive to a number of factors—many of them temporary. If your results come back outside the normal range, it doesn’t automatically indicate a permanent problem. Some things worth knowing:
- Recent illness or fever can temporarily reduce sperm count and motility. Let your provider know if you’ve been sick in the past two to three months.
- Heat exposure from hot tubs, saunas, or laptops rested on the lap can temporarily impair sperm production.
- Certain medications and substances, including anabolic steroids, exogenous testosterone, cannabis, and opioids, may suppress sperm production. If you use any of these, let your care team know.
- Results naturally vary from sample to sample. A second analysis is sometimes recommended to confirm findings.
Get started: schedule a semen analysis
Our reproductive urologists and reproductive endocrinologists specialize in treating infertility and can help you make sense of your numbers, identify next steps, and build a plan that fits your family-building goals.
