Semen Analysis

Failure to follow these instructions could mean rejection of the specimen or the need for repeat collection and testing.

• Semen Analysis is performed by the Laboratory at Cox South Hospital location. Specimens are accepted at south location only from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, and must arrive within 1 hour of collection. Registration in south hospital outpatient department is required but please bring specimen to laboratory first.

• Abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 7 days prior to collection of the semen specimen by masturbation.

• A semen specimen should be collected only after you have washed your hands and penis with soap and water, being sure to rinse away all soap residue. Dry thoroughly before collecting specimen.

• Specimen should be collected by masturbation directly into a sterile, clean and dry container. If the physician’s office has not provided a container, you can pick one up at Cox Laboratory.
—Lubricants should not be used to aid in collection, as they may be toxic to sperm.
—Condoms should not be used for semen collection because they contain agents that kill sperm.
—Interrupted intercourse should not be performed for specimen collection as this may result in the loss of the most critical portion of the ejaculate (first portion) and the specimen may be contaminated with vaginal cells or bacteria.

• Be sure that all the specimen goes directly into the container and screw the lid of the container on tightly. Please label the container with your name, collection date and time, the abstinence period and the ordering physician. This information will be confirmed by the person receiving your specimen in the laboratory. Place the container into a paper sack and bring the sack to the laboratory within 1 hour of collection. Avoid exposing the specimen to extremes of temperature.

• Your attention to the above instructions will ensure a quality specimen. A quality specimen is necessary to obtain quality results.