A vasectomy procedure is not considered effective immediately as sperms may remain in the reproductive tract for a period of time after the procedure. For this reason, a post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) is required to confirm clearance.
Continue using contraception until you have received clearance based on your test result.
We recommend that you do the sample test approximately 16 weeks after the procedure. Usually you would need around 20–25 ejaculations to clear the sperms out of the system.
If ejaculation frequency is lower, your clinician may advise waiting longer before testing to improve the reliability of results.
Post Vasectomy Sperm Test performed too early may result in an inconclusive or non-clear result due to residual sperm that can take time to clear naturally. Following the recommended timeframe reduces the likelihood of needing repeat testing.
Make sure you have your request form and a specimen container.
Contact your chosen pathology provider to confirm drop-off times and instructions.
Collect the sample directly into the container.
Avoid condoms and lubricants unless the lab specifically says they’re acceptable.
Label the container with:
Full name
Date of birth (if required)
Collection date and exact time
Drop the sample to the pathology provider as soon as possible after collection.
Many labs prefer it within about 2 hours (confirm your lab’s requirement).
Drop the sample to the pathology provider as soon as possible after collection.
Many labs prefer it within about 2 hours (confirm your lab’s requirement).
Sometimes a sample needs to be repeated due to practical issues like:
missing or incomplete paperwork
incorrect labelling (especially collection time)
sample delivered too late
not enough volume collected
If you’re unsure, contact the lab before collecting the sample for a post vasectomy sperm test.
Fees can vary depending on the pathology provider and location. Some centres charge an out-of-pocket fee for post-vasectomy sperm testing.
Tip: Call the pathology provider first and ask:
the exact fee
best drop-off times
how soon results are sent
Once you submit the sample to the lab, send us a email to reception@scalpelfreevasectomy.com.au to inform that you had submitted the sample. We will contact you within 1 week to give you the results. If you have not been contacted within a 7 business days after testing, please contact our clinic so we can assist with follow-up.
Small number of dead sperms may still be present in the first post vasectomy semen analysis. If that happens, we may recommend you to repeat the post vasectomy sperm test after more time (usually after another 3 months). However after 7 months post vasectomy, if your test still show small number of dead sperms, then we may issue a Special Clearance Result to give you clearance. Your doctor will explain what that means under your clinic’s protocol.
Until you’re formally cleared, continue contraception.
Your sample needs to be tested within two hours of collection.
If possible, take it directly to a lab, especially if you live nearby, as this is usually the most reliable option. You can also use a collection centre, but it is important to call first to confirm courier drop-off times, as this process can sometimes be less reliable.
The main pathology providers in Queensland are QML, and SNP.
Please contact QML Pathology before collecting your specimen to confirm the correct drop-off time and location.
Patients are currently being advised to deliver samples directly to the nearest laboratory, especially if they live within 1 hour of a lab.
Some QML Collection Centres in SEQ may still accept seminal fluid samples by prior arrangement. To find a suitable centre, visit the QML website, enter your suburb, and filter by “Semen Fluid Analysis.”
Please call QML at 07 3121 444 in advance to confirm courier times for your chosen location:
Please contact your nearest Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology clinic before collecting your sample to confirm the appropriate drop-off time and location. Specific phone numbers for each clinic are listed below.
Before collecting your sample, please contact your nearest 4Cyte Pathology collection centre to arrange the most suitable time and location for specimen drop-off.
Phone: 0481 464 432
Please note that 4Cyte collection centres do not clearly indicate which locations accept seminal fluid samples, so you may refer here to review available centres.
Lastly, make sure to complete their required form before collecting your sample.
If you require another request form, instructions, or help locating an appropriate pathology provider, please contact our clinic if you had the procedure performed by our clinic Doctor. Please send us a email requesting your form and you can collect the sample kit from your pathology provider closer to your home.
reception@scalpelfreevasectomy.com.au
