The analysis of a semen sample should be carried out by the laboratory within 2 hrs. of collection, and collection performed after 2-3 days of abstinence.  In my experience most males will not produced a representative sample if they are shown a “sterile” bathroom for collection of the sample.  I have found that performing the collection in a “user friendly environment”, and having the female partner participate in the collection process yields a much better sample.  I recommend that he shower first, scrub the private area, and wash off all the soap because soap will affect sperm viability.  For those males unable to produce a sample with manual stimulation I suggest that they shower first use, and then use a special “collecting condom” with their partner.  Producing the sample in a private place, and keeping the semen sample at body temperature (close to the body in a inside pocket) during transport will provide a more reliable measure of motility and viability within 2 hrs. of collection.

According to the established WHO criteria a normal semen sample has:

• volume: between 3-5 ml of total ejaculate
• count: greater than 20 million/ml (average between 60-80)
• motility: 60% should be actively motile
• morphology: over 60% normal forms