Patient's question:
Hello, I would like to inquire about 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 issues 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 and free of spermicidal agents) 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 collect 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, such as placing it in a pocket of underwear during transport.