prior to ovulation, when cervical mucus is ideal for sperm transport and survival.  Without using lubricant, other than Pre Seed (a sperm friendly lubricant), the couple should have relations 6-12 hours prior to the examination.  A warm speculum is placed into the vagina, the cervix is wiped clear of exudate, and cervical mucus is checked using pH paper.  A small amount of mucus is aspirated and placed on a pre-warmed slide.  The mucus is covered with a cover glass, and should be examined promptly using a light microscope.  For a good result one should see greater than 20 moving sperm/high powered field.