How to Prepare for the Best Possible Sperm Sample
At Cyprus IVF Hospital, our goal is to achieve the highest possible fertilization and embryo development outcomes. Proper male preparation before sperm collection plays a critical role in sperm count, motility, DNA integrity, and overall IVF success.
Sperm quality reflects lifestyle choices made weeks before the collection day. Please read this guide carefully and follow the recommendations below.
1) Sexual Abstinence – IDEAL & MANDATORY
Ideal abstinence period: EXACTLY 72 HOURS (3 DAYS)
This is the preferred and recommended abstinence duration for IVF/ICSI cycles at our clinic.
Why 72 hours?
- Shorter than 48 hours → lower sperm count
- Longer than 4–5 days → higher DNA fragmentation, reduced motility
- 72 hours provides the best balance between sperm quantity and quality
Please do not shorten or extend this period unless your doctor or coordinator specifically instructs you to do so.
Your coordinator will confirm the exact start and end time of abstinence.
2) What You MUST Avoid Before Sperm Collection
Heat Exposure (Last 2–3 Weeks)
Heat significantly impairs sperm production and DNA quality.
Avoid completely:
Sperm production is temperature-sensitive; even mild overheating can reduce quality.
Alcohol, Smoking & Recreational Substances
Inform your coordinator immediately if you are using any hormone-related medication or supplement.
Gym Supplements & Performance Enhancers
Many commonly used gym supplements may interfere with hormone balance and negatively impact sperm count, motility, and DNA quality.
Avoid:
Plain protein powders without hormones or stimulants are generally acceptable.
3) What You SHOULD Do to Improve Sperm Quality
Avoid excessive:
Supplements
Only if advised by your doctor or coordinator
Certain supplements may help support sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress and supporting sperm production, motility, and DNA integrity.
Commonly recommended supplements may include:
Important: Supplements are most effective when taken consistently for at least 6–8 weeks before sperm collection, as sperm development is a gradual process. (Sperm development takes approximately 72–90 days)
Always inform your coordinator about any supplements you are currently taking or plan to take, to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your treatment.
Lifestyle Habits
4) The Last 72 Hours Before Collection
5) On the Day of Sperm Collection
Before Collection
Collection Method
If surgical sperm retrieval (TESA / PESA / micro-TESE) is planned, you will receive separate instructions.
6) Illness, Fever & Medications (Very Important)
Please inform your coordinator or doctor if you have had:
These factors may influence sperm quality and the timing of treatment.
Semen Analysis Before IVF (Important)
To properly assess sperm quality and plan the IVF process, we generally request a semen analysis (spermiogram) performed at least 1 month before the egg retrieval day.
This timing is important because:
Having an up-to-date semen analysis allows us to:
If you have a recent semen analysis, please share it with your coordinator as early as possible.
Semen Analysis: What It Shows and Its Limitations
Semen analysis provides an initial evaluation based on any structural and gross morphological abnormalities, the sperm count and motility, and reflects the sperm sample evaluated at the time of examination only. Sperm parameters may vary between samples due to biological and external factors.
During ICSI fertilization, a more detailed morphological assessment is performed under high magnification using micromanipulation systems, which may reveal additional findings not detectable in routine semen analysis. These observations can be documented in the embryology or egg collection report when clinically relevant. The semen analysis report does not guarantee fertilization, embryo development, or pregnancy outcome.
Important Final Notes
- Sperm quality reflects lifestyle choices made weeks and months before collection
- Even small changes can significantly impact:
- Fertilization rates
- Embryo development
- IVF success
If you are unsure about any supplement, medication, or habit, please ask us before the collection day.
Small details matter in IVF, and our team is always available to ensure you feel informed, confident, and supported throughout the process.
