Laboratory selection
You can have an andro–test at SPERMLAB or any Spermatology laboratory certified by the Association of Spermatology and only by accredited biologists.
A semen analysis in general shall be performed only by specialized Spermatology laboratories. By our experience, non specialized laboratories use to underestimate the sperm motility and overestimate the sperm morphology. Studies all over the World show that the reasons why non-specialized laboratories commit mistakes in a semen analysis derive from the fact they lack proper equipment and training.
Semen analysis in specialied Spermatology laboratories only
Finally, analyses from laboratories operating inside a gynaecological unit (IVF clinic) are usually incomplete. The studies show that this is due to lack of interest, since in these laboratories an analysis of semen is performed in order to decide whether the semen is appropriate for intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
An andro-test is performed only by laboratories certified of having sufficient training and equipment, conforming to good practices and assessing semen correctly.
Semen presents significant fluctuations. This is why he urologist may ask to repeat an andro-test, at least after a treatment. Every man shall consult his urologist for the interpretation of a semen analysis, the diagnosis and the eventual treatment.
What you need to know before planning a semen collection:
You should not have an ejaculation for 2-4 days, but you should have regular ejaculations during the days preceding this abstinence. Therefore, it is recommended that you have had at least two ejaculations during the week preceding this abstinence. For example, if you are planning to have a semen analysis on the 23rd of the month, your last ejaculation shall be betweeen the 19th and the 21st of the month had an ejaculation on the 1st and 20th day of the month, and on the 23rd day of the month, but you shall also have at least 2 ejaculations during the week before the 19th of the month. In addition, you shall not have taken any antibiotics nor have had any febrile episodes during the last month.
What you need to know for sample collection:
You should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and rinse the penis only with water prior to sample collection. The penis must not have vaginal secretions or saliva. Collect the semen in a sterile urine cup (ask for one in a pharmacy) and be careful not to lose any drops, especially the first ones. However, if it happens, please report the loss, as the analysis must be postponed. Only one ejaculation is sufficient for the analysis of semen. If you ejaculate more times, you will negatively influence the reliability of the results.
We recommended that you collect the sample in our facilities, in SPERMLAB, in a comfortable and discreet room, where you are allowed to enter with your partner. If you wish to collect the semen sample at home, remember that it must not contain vaginal secretions or saliva, because these will negatively influence the results. You will also need to present your identity document to the person that will receive your semen sample.