Patient's question:
Hello doctor, I would like to consult how to check the sperm survival rate. Because my wife and I want to have a baby now, I thought of checking the sperm survival rate at the hospital to see if we can start preparing for pregnancy. How should the sperm survival rate be checked? I haven't done this kind of test before, so I wanted to ask.Doctor's answer:
Hello; Generally, checking sperm viability requires a semen analysis, with the following precautions:⑴ Abstain from ejaculation for 3-5 days before collection; avoid masturbation or nocturnal emissions during this period. Refrain from smoking, alcohol, and medications that affect sperm production.
⑵ Wash your hands and the glans thoroughly before collection. The best method is masturbation, preferably in a quiet, undisturbed environment, with early morning timing being ideal.
⑶ The collection container should be sterile and dry. Maintain the container at room temperature (around 20℃).
⑷ Store the semen at approximately 37℃. In winter, keep it in a close-fitting underwear pocket to maintain warmth; in summer, avoid direct sunlight. Deliver the sample to the hospital laboratory as soon as possible, aiming for examination within 1 hour.
⑸ Label the specimen properly, and include the patient's name, age, date, and collection time on the test request form.