Semen Sample
Semen is the fluid that comes out of the penis during sexual activity. This fluid contains sperm. A semen sample may be studied in the lab for many reasons. The results depend on how you collect and handle the sample as well as other factors.
Please call (608) 824-6160 to schedule your clinic visit at our Generations Fertility Care Clinic if you want to have a semen sample studied in our lab. Our Generations Fertility Care Clinic (also known as Generations) is jointly owned and operated by Meriter and UW Health. It is located at 2365 Deming Way, Middleton, WI 53562.
What is the best way to collect a semen sample?
Semen should be collected by masturbation after 3 days of abstinence (no ejaculation). The entire semen sample is put into a sterile cup given to you by Generations. Use only the sterile container supplied by our clinic.
Before the semen collection
You must be registered here at Generations as a patient in order to have semen studied in our lab. If you are not a registered patient, please call (608) 824-6160. Our receptionist will help you. Do this at least one day before your appointment.
If your doctor is not from Generations, your doctor’s office staff will need to fax a completed Semen Specimen Test Request form to (608) 827-3040. A copy of the request form and instructions for referring doctors can be obtained by calling (608) 824-6160.
We suggest that you collect your sample at our clinic if you live more than 30 minutes away from our clinic or it is very cold weather.
If the semen sample will be done in our clinic
1. Go to the front desk to check in. You will be shown where to collect your sample.
2. There are magazines and videos in the room for you to use. You may bring your own materials. Your partner may also go with you into the room.
3. Wash your hands well. Masturbate. Collect the entire amount into the cup. Do not use condoms or gel.
4. Put the label you were given onto the cup.
5. Place the cup in the lab window which is next to the collection room. Ring the bell. Our lab staff will take the sample from you.
If the semen sample will be done at home
1. Ask our clinic staff for a sterile cup before going home. Any other kind of cup may result in an abnormal result.
2. Put the label you were given onto the cup.
3. Wash your hands well. Masturbate. Collect the entire amount into the cup. Do not use condoms or gel. The semen should be a direct sample from the penis, not from your partner’s vagina.
4. Keep the cup warm by putting it under your shirt next to your skin. Avoid extreme cold or heat.
5. Bring the specimen to our Generations reception desk within 30 minutes. You must deliver your own specimen to our clinic.
For questions or concerns, please call
The Generations Fertility Care Clinic (Generations), Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm,
608-824-6160.
Toll-free 1-888-474-3933.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 12/07/2011
Copyright © 12/07/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#4786
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