Multiple ejaculate collection via the use of a semen collection device at intercourse versus masturbation

Objective: To assess the seminal characteristics of multiple ejaculates collected sequentially via masturbation or at intercourse using a semen collection device (Male Factor PakTM; MFPTM). Design: Three ejaculates were collected by patients over a 3 day period (1 semen specimen/day) via masturbation or at intercourse by using the MFPTM. Semen specimens were assessed for volume (ml), sperm count (x106/mL), percentage and grade of motility, percentage of normal morphology and for the total functional sperm fraction (TFSF; ~10~). Setting: Clinical and research environment. Patient(s): Forty couples participating in an intrauterine insemination (IUI) program. Main Outcome Measure(s): Differences in semen quantitative and qualitative characteristics of ejaculates produced via masturbation or intercourse. Result(s): The sperm count of the first ejaculate collected at intercourse or via masturbation yielded 170.0+19.0 and 150.0*21 .O x106 spermatozoa, respectively. The sperm count decreased by 53% and 32% on day 2 and 3 of semen collection via masturbation. The sperm count decreased by 7 1% and 49% on day 2 and 3 of semen collection via the use of the MFPTM at intercourse (PcO.05). The semen volume decreased by 45% and 50% after the third collection day in specimens collected at intercourse or via masturbation, respectively. Semen qualitative charactristics increased as a function of collection frequency, regardless of collection method. Those characteristics tended to be higher, but not significantly different (P>o.O5), in specimens collected at intercourse. Conclusion(s): Using the semen collection device, there was a tendency to have better quantitative and qualitative semen characteristics as well as the advantage that the method of collection will closely resemble the semen produced naturally when deposited in the vagina during intercourse and subsequent ejaculation.