Semen Examination Guideline Semen examination is an important test during the consultation and treatment of infertile couples or patients with male infertility. Semen analysis is an important basis for the estimation of male fertility. Therefore, all patients suffering from infertility should first undergo this examination to facilitate a clear diagnosis. Semen collection 1. Masturbation method: Generally, a complete semen specimen can be obtained for analysis. The advantage is that it can be examined in the laboratory immediately after collection and will not be affected by the temperature. The disadvantage is that the patient feels uncomfortable or sometimes cannot remove the semen. 2. Condom method: The whole portion of semen can be collected during sexual intercourse with a condom. After the collection of semen, quickly squeezed into the test tube for examination. The disadvantage is that the condom has been vulcanized and has its own spermicidal effect, which sometimes affects the accuracy of sperm viability measurement. In addition, when squeezing the semen from the condom into the test tube, the action should be as gentle as possible to avoid damaging the sperm. Condoms contain spermicide, before use should be washed with soapy water, and rinse with water 4 – 6 times to clean, dry and spare. Precautions 1. Abstinence for 4 days or 2–7 days before sperm collection. 2. The semen specimen should be brought to the laboratory within 1 hour if possible. 3. In cold or hot weather, the semen specimen should be kept warm (20–35 degrees) or placed in a close-fitting underwear bag and brought to the laboratory.