When it comes to taking a fertility test, many men may get nervous as it gets closer to that time. Whether they’re unsure what to expect or just uncomfortable depositing a sample in a cup in some doctor’s office, being nervous is very common.
Today, we wanted to quickly run through what the entire process of taking a fertility test is like to better understand what happens before you go into it. While your doctor may have already run you through the initial requirements and preparation, it still helps to have all the information you possibly can. The more you know about what you’re stepping into, the less nervous you’re going to be.
So, how do you take a fertility test?
You’ve already made the appointment, and now it’s time to get ready to go in. It may be a few days before the appointment that you’re reading this, or you may be so happy about having a baby that you’re looking at this before you’ve even scheduled the first appointment! Either way, we’re here to help.
When you schedule your appointment, the fertility clinic will ask that you not ejaculate for two or three days before your semen analysis. This way, you’re able to give a sufficient semen sample when you come in for your appointment.
Once you arrive at the clinic, they will ask that you bring along your photo ID, along with your insurance information.
Now comes the part many men get nervous about. You will be handed a plastic cup to collect your semen sample. It’s not really a plastic cup, per se. It’s a container that is used to submit your semen collection. They will take you to a private collection room and leave you to do your business.
The technician assigned to you will ensure that the correct labeling is on your container before you go into the room. Be sure to lock the door once you’re inside alone. While it doesn’t get rid of all your nervousness, at least you know you’ll have complete privacy.
Remember, everyone who’s there is there for the same thing, so being nervous is okay. And in the end, this is about ensuring you have the healthiest sperm possible for you and your partner to have the baby you’re trying so hard for.
Once you’ve locked the door, you’ll then need to deposit your sample into the collection cup. So take your time, and know that there will be material in most collection rooms to help if you’re having trouble because of where you’re at.
After you’ve made your deposit, the fertility clinic will then take your semen sample and examine it for motility, structure, and overall health to ensure you’re swimmers don’t need floaties! No one wants that, but sometimes we all need a little help to get where we need to go!
Remember that visiting a fertility clinic to take a test is about the bigger picture of what you and your partner are doing—bringing a baby into this world together. If you focus on that, taking a fertility test will be far easier than you ever imagined! For more information read Tips for Men to Boost Pre-Conception Health.
