Semen Analysis (AUA Guidelines), Postvasectomy
Also known as: Postvasectomy Semen Analysis
Use
Azoöspermia and <0.1x106 nonmotile sperm per mL (or <100,000 nonmotile sperm per mL) are reliable indicators of vasectomy success.
Special Instructions
The test must be scheduled with the performing laboratory, as it is not available at all locations. An entire freshly collected semen sample is required, and if the sample is more than one hour old, an alternative qualitative evaluation should be conducted for sperm presence. Contact the lab prior to collection.
Limitations
Factors such as incomplete ejaculation or collection can lead to falsely low sperm counts or false absence of sperm. Samples older than one hour or those contaminated with spermicidal material may be rejected, leading to inaccurate results regarding vasectomy success. Testing must commence within 60 minutes to maintain specimen integrity.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 4463-6
- 3160-9
- 34657-7
- 42531-4
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
Entire ejaculate
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sterile screw-cap container
Collection Instructions
See Patient Instructions for Semen Collection.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation. The American Urological Association recommends a waiting period of 8 to 16 weeks post vasectomy as the appropriate period for the first postvasectomy semen analysis.
Storage Instructions
Testing must begin within 60 minutes of specimen production. The specimen should be kept at room temperature, close to the body (inside a shirt or coat) during transport.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens older than one hour; specimens contaminated with spermicidal material
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 hour |
| Refrigerated | Unstable |
| Frozen | Unstable |