Specimen Requirements

Preparation of Patient: 

The laboratory recommends collecting a sample for evaluation two months post vasectomy and after at least ten ejaculations since vasectomy.  You should follow your physician's instructions if they differ from laboratory recommendation. 

The entire ejaculation should be collected in a clean container, by masturbation, after 48 hours of abstinence.  Do not use lubricants or condom during collection, as they may contain spermicidal agents.  Container (not lid) must be labeled with full legal name, date of birth, collection date, and collection time. 

Container Type: 

Sterile Specimen Cup

Specimen Type:

Semen, total ejaculate

Specimen Volume: 

> 1.0 mL minimum < 0.5 mL

Specimen Handling/Transport:

Specimen must be received in laboratory within 2 hours of collection.

Specimen Stability/Storage:

2 hours room temperature

Specimen Rejection:

Specimens collected in a condom

Specimen must be collected in a container that is chemically clean. Soap residues can decrease motility, as can spermicides.

Volume < 0.5 mL