Sperm Penetration Tests: How It Is Done

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How It Is Done

Sperm mucus penetration test

For the sperm mucus penetration test, samples of your cervical mucus and your partner's semen will be collected. In the lab, the semen is added to the mucus in a tube. After 90 minutes, the distance the sperm have moved is measured.

A sample of cervical mucus is collected from the woman during a pelvic examination. For more information, see the medical test Pelvic Examination.

A semen sample is collected by masturbation. First, you should urinate and then wash and rinse your hands and penis before collecting the semen in a sterile cup. You cannot use lubricants or condoms when collecting the sample. If you collect the semen sample at home, be sure to get it to the lab or clinic within 1 hour. Keep the sample at body temperature and out of direct sunlight. The sample cannot be collected by having sex and then withdrawing when you ejaculate because vaginal fluid may be mixed with the sperm.

Sperm penetration assay

For the sperm penetration assay, a semen sample is collected. The sperm are mixed with hamster eggs in a laboratory. The number of sperm that can penetrate an egg is measured.

A semen sample is collected by masturbation. First, you should urinate and then wash and rinse your hands and penis before collecting the semen in a sterile cup. You cannot use lubricants or condoms when collecting the sample. If you collect the semen sample at home, be sure to get it to the lab or clinic within 1 hour. Keep the sample at body temperature and out of direct sunlight. The sample cannot be collected by having sex and then withdrawing when you ejaculate because vaginal fluid may be mixed with the sperm.

Last updated:	March 21, 2008
Author:	Sandy Jocoy, RN
Reviewed By:	Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC