Lab Instructions

MHP Patient Instructions for Semen Analysis

Instructions for collection:

1. Refrain from sexual intercourse (ejaculation) for 3 days prior to collection of the semen specimen.
2. The specimen should be collected by masturbation directly into a sterile plastic container that you may obtain from MHP laboratory or your doctor’s office. Do not use a jar or other container of your own, since traces of detergent or other material may affect the sperm and result in an abnormal result. Do not collect the specimen in a condom during intercourse, since spermicides in the condom in the condom will kill the sperm.
3. Label the specimen with your name and the date and time of collection.
4. Sperm are very sensitive and die quickly if exposed to cold. If you collect the specimen at home, keep it warm (as close to body temperature as possible) and bring it to the laboratory within one hour.
5. For vasectomy checks (post-vasectomy semen analysis), since only the presence or absence of sperm is important, the semen may be collected at home (do not use a condom to collect specimen). The temperature of the specimen is not important in this case. These specimens may be brought to the laboratory within a few hours.
6. Semen Analysis (Fertility) – 7:00am – 6:00pm. Monday through Friday only.
7. Post Vasectomy Sperm Check – Anytime during business hours (daily 7:00am-10:30pm).

Mercy Health Partners Laboratory
Customer Service: (231) 672-6259

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