Patient's question:
Hello, I would like to ask what are the precautions for checking sperm quality? My wife and I have been married for almost a year now, and we haven't taken any contraceptive measures. However, she hasn't shown any signs of pregnancy yet. Could this be related to my sperm? I want to check if there are any problems with my sperm. What are the precautions for checking sperm quality?Doctor's answer:
Before the semen analysis, the patient should abstain from sexual intercourse for 4 to 7 days. One week before the test, testosterone propionate, testosterone phenylacetate, and norethandrolone should not be used. During semen collection, the penis can be massaged with mild soap or petroleum jelly, and the sample should be collected in a sterile test tube. Alternatively, a condom (cleaned, without spermicidal agents) or the coitus interruptus method can be used, but the amount collected this way is often insufficient. If the above methods fail to collect semen, rectal massage of the seminal vesicles and the terminal part of the vas deferens, along with compression urination, can be performed to check for sperm in the sediment. Do not expose semen to excessively hot or cold environments. It should be promptly handed to the doctor for examination, and the time should not exceed 30 minutes. In cold weather, take precautions to keep warm, and place the sample in a pocket of underwear to maintain its temperature during transport.