Email: Andrology.Department@elht.nhs.uk
Phone: 01282 805409
Appointment only
Instruction for the collection of semen samples
Introduction for Fertility samples
A semen analysis is usually advised if a couple are having difficulty conceiving (becoming pregnant). Primary infertility is an extremely common problem, affecting more than one in seven couples attempting their first pregnancy. A male fertility problem is a factor in around 40% of couples.
The results provide information about:
Volume- How much semen is produced (average greater than 2ml)
Count—How many sperm are present per millilitre of semen
Motility- How many sperm are motile and how quickly they are moving
Morphology- How many are of normal shape and size
Other- pH, viscosity, agglutination (sperm sticking together), any other significant cells present.
Introduction for Post Vasectomy samples
A one-hour post vasectomy semen analysis is carried out approximately 16-20 weeks post operation with a minimum of at least 20 ejaculations (unless otherwise directed from your referring consultant). To check whether your sample contains any sperm.
The semen will be analysed for any moving sperm, as any still present in your semen can result in pregnancy. Use contraception until the doctor who performed your vasectomy operation informs you that your post vasectomy semen sample is clear. Your referring doctor will be notified with the results within 7 days of receipt of the specimen.
Containers
Your clinician will give you a red or blue pack that will contain a pre-weighed specimen pot. Do not use any other container other that the one supplied in your pack as some plastics are toxic to sperm. Please check the expiry date on the container label.
Please store the container between 20oC and 37oC prior to collecting the sample to minimise temperature shock to the sample.
Replacement containers can be collected from your GP surgery or from the Andrology department at Burnley General Teaching Hospital (please contact the department on 01282 805409 to arrange collection of a pack).
Instructions for collecting the semen sample
You can collect your sample at home or you can request the use of a private room within the Andrology department to produce your sample. Please ring 01282 805409 to book the use of a room.
Prior to your appointment you should abstain from ejaculation/sex for at least 48 hours but no longer than 7 days
- Having an ejaculation/sex less than 48 hours before your appointment can cause low volume, low numbers of sperm and abnormal appearance of sperm.
- 'Storing up sperm’ for more than 7 days will not improve your sperm; it could have a detrimental effect on your results. Sperm can have poor movement and abnormal appearance.
Producing the sample on your appointment day:
- Label the pot with your name and date of birth
- Pass urine, then wash hands and genitals with soap and water, ensuring all soap is washed off.
- Masturbate into the pot provided, your sample will be around a teaspoon of fluid.
- Firmly secure the lid.
Please DO NOT use or do the following– this will cause your specimen to be contaminated or could kill sperm and will affect your results:
- Any form of lubrication will kill sperm
- Condoms will kill the sperm.
- Interrupted intercourse or partner participation will contaminate the sample.
- Scraping your sample into the container
Any of the above may result in you having to repeat the specimen which may be a further 8 weeks wait.
If the whole sample has not been collected, inform the department at your appointment.
Complete the delivery slip/collection form below (This is a PDF document that must be downloaded and printed) and bring the information and your sample to your appointment.
Results will be most accurate if you deliver the sample to Andrology quickly, within 50 minutes of ejaculation.
Delivery of your sample
Place the container upright and keep close to your body to keep it warm (under clothing), then take it direct to the Andrology Department.
The use of hot water bottles or car heaters will kill the sperm.
Please deliver to the Andrology Department at Burnley General Teaching Hospital as soon as possible
The specimen must reach the department within 50 minutes of producing it into the container. Please familiarise yourself with the location of the department and allow for traffic delays and parking.
The department is located in Level 2, Area 1, Burnley General Hospital, Casterton Avenue, Burnley, BB10 2PQ.
You may use the postcode BB10 2PQ to view the correct hospital entrance on Google Earth Street view or use What3word App coins.fork.credit – this will place you at the correct entrance to the department.
Please visit https://elht.nhs.uk/services/andrology for more information.
If you have any queries contact the department on 01282 805409 or email Andrology.Department@elht.nhs.uk
Results
If you have been referred by your GP, your results will be sent to them within 7 calendar days from receipt. Please contact your doctor’s surgery to arrange this appointment.
If you have been referred by a hospital doctor, they will write to you with an appointment where they will discuss your results.
Results are not available from the laboratory.
Why would a repeat test be needed?
Guidelines that are not followed or borderline result often trigger the need for a repeat sample. Your requesting doctor will request the department of Andrology to send you an appointment for a repeat test.
Quality of Our Service
All tests carried out are in accordance with WHO (World Health Organisation) guidelines (2021).
All specimens will be tested by State Registered Biomedical Scientists who are regularly competency assessed.
Personal information will be kept in line with Caldicott and Trust Information Governance protocols
Post Vasectomy and Fertility tests are UK NEQAS accredited (ISO15189:2022)
No Smoking Policy
The NHS has a responsibility for the nation’s health. Please protect yourself, patients, visitors and staff by adhering to our no smoking policy. Smoking is not permitted within any of our hospital buildings or grounds.
Questions and Queries
If you have questions regarding your sample, comments or queries, please ring the laboratory on 01282 805409 or email Andrology.Department@elht.nhs.uk
Should you have any concerns regarding the service or any aspect of your care please speak to the Senior Biomedical Scientist (using the above contact details), or if you prefer, the Patient Advice Liaison Service (PALS).
Last revised - February 2025