Patient's question:
Hello, I would like to ask about the precautions to take when checking sperm quality. My wife and I have been married for almost a year now, and we haven't taken any contraceptive measures, but she hasn't shown any signs of pregnancy yet. Could this be related to my sperm? I want to check if there are any issues with my sperm. What are the precautions to take when checking sperm quality?Doctor's answer:
Before a semen analysis, the patient should abstain from sexual activity 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 and free of spermicides) can be used, or semen can be collected through the coitus interruptus method, but the amount collected this way is often insufficient. If the above methods fail to produce semen, rectal massage of the seminal vesicles and the terminal part of the vas deferens, or urethral compression to collect urine, can be performed to check for sperm in the sediment. Do not expose semen to excessively hot or cold environments. It should be delivered to the doctor promptly, within 30 minutes. On cold days, take precautions to keep it warm, and it can be placed in a pocket inside clothing to maintain its temperature during transport.