FAQs
Have questions about IVF and infertility? We have answers.
Collection of Semen
In order to obtain sperm of optimal quantity and quality, it is important that patients follow their individual clinic instructions for semen collection. Be aware that clinics may have different protocols for sperm collection for intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Masturbation is the most frequent method used to produce a sperm sample for IUI and IVF. For patients who have difficulty collecting a sample through masturbation, a variety of aids or alternative collection methods could be provided, including the use of a special vibrator to assist with ejaculation or a special nontoxic condom for collection by sexual intercourse (commercial condoms cannot be used because they are toxic to sperm).
Occasionally, additional techniques may be required to obtain a sperm sample such as electroejaculation (use of an electrical probe to induce ejaculation) or sperm extraction directly from the testicle or epididymis using a minor surgical procedure. In these special cases, reproductive urologists should be consulted.
Common instructions for collection through masturbation include:
Some physicians recommend that all men with sperm in the ejaculate should preserve a semen sample by cryopreservation (freezing) in advance of the IUI or IVF cycle. This frozen sample can be an important insurance policy if problems arise in the production or quality of the sample on the day of IUI or IVF. Consider asking your physician whether freezing a sperm sample is appropriate for you.
Masturbation is the most frequent method used to produce a sperm sample for IUI and IVF. For patients who have difficulty collecting a sample through masturbation, a variety of aids or alternative collection methods could be provided, including the use of a special vibrator to assist with ejaculation or a special nontoxic condom for collection by sexual intercourse (commercial condoms cannot be used because they are toxic to sperm).
Occasionally, additional techniques may be required to obtain a sperm sample such as electroejaculation (use of an electrical probe to induce ejaculation) or sperm extraction directly from the testicle or epididymis using a minor surgical procedure. In these special cases, reproductive urologists should be consulted.
Common instructions for collection through masturbation include:
- Observe a short period of abstinence (no ejaculating) for at least two days but not more than five days before obtaining the semen sample. In some cases, you may be asked to produce a sample with a shorter abstinence period.
- Clinics may request the sample be collected in the office or at home. Private collection rooms are usually available. In some cases, collection of the sample may occur at home and be transported to the clinic. When collecting at home, be sure to minimize transit time and transport the sample according to the instructions provided.
- Wash and dry your hands prior to collecting the specimen. Some programs also recommended cleansing the penis followed with rinsing and drying to remove any soap or water.
- Lubricants should not be used unless directed by a physician.
- Semen should be collected in a sterile, non-toxic plastic specimen cup provided by the laboratory. Other containers are not acceptable.
- Follow the clinic instructions for labeling and transporting the specimen. Keep the jar closed tightly to prevent leakage. When collecting at home, transport the sample at room or body temperature. Be sure to let the lab and your physician know if any of the specimen was lost or spilled and whether you have been taking any medications or supplements.
Some physicians recommend that all men with sperm in the ejaculate should preserve a semen sample by cryopreservation (freezing) in advance of the IUI or IVF cycle. This frozen sample can be an important insurance policy if problems arise in the production or quality of the sample on the day of IUI or IVF. Consider asking your physician whether freezing a sperm sample is appropriate for you.
