Semen Analysis
Semen analysis is a first line infertility test. It is a panel of preliminary measurements and evaluations done on a semen sample. Because sperm counts and quality can vary, often two or three analyses may be requested by your physician.
This test is done at the Swedish Medical Center Andrology Lab at 601 East Hampden Avenue next to Swedish Medical Center, phone number is 303-788-7672. This test can be done by appointment between 6:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday as well as 6:30 until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Semen should be collected after 2 days but not more than 5 days of sexual abstinence. The semen analysis should be collected at the laboratory. It is preferred that the semen analysis be collected at the laboratory. If this is not possible, it should be collected in a container which is provided by the Andrology Lab. It then must be delivered within one hour of collection.
The semen analysis is obtained by masturbation with ejaculation directly into the container. It is important that all of the ejaculated semen goes into the container. If some of the specimen is lost, it is important to let the lab know. Studies have shown that men produce 80% of the sperm in the first two drops of semen.
The semen specimen should not be collected in condoms, because they often have spermicide on them. There are special condoms available from the Andrology Lab which can be used to collect the specimen if necessary.
Coitus interruptus (withdrawal) is not an acceptable method of collecting the semen specimen because of the loss of the first portion of the semen specimen.
This information is provided as a resource only and not intented to be a recommendation or a substitute for consultation with your physician regarding your health and needs.
e-mail: webmaster@storkreport.com - copyright 1998 The OB/GYN Center