Getting Started - Male Virtual Patient
The male partner should accompany his partner to the first visit, if possible. Please ensure you bring your Health Card.
At the first visit you can expect the doctor to take your medical history and to have blood tests.
If a semen analysis is required, this can be done MONDAY TO FRIDAY FROM 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Other times can be considered on request. You will be provided with the instructions and a specimen container at your initial appointment.
Semen specimens for semen analysis or for insemination, can be produced either in our special collection room, or at home. If the sample is produced at home, it should be brought to the clinic within 1/2 an hour, if possible, but no longer than 1 1/2 hours from production. It should be kept against the body to keep it at room temperature during transport to the clinic by yourself or your partner.
Lifestyle Considerations:
It is important to realize that there are small changes you can make in your daily life that will help to improve your success in this process.
You must keep your stress levels as low as possible. We realize that this is a very anxious time for you, but it will greatly facilitate the process if you remain at a low stress level. Simple steps like going for a walk at the end of your day or taking an exercise class or just booking a little time for yourself may help.
Good nutrition is important, make sure you are taking a daily multi-vitamin WITHOUT IRON for men.
Avoid hot tubs or saunas. Avoid, cycling for extensive periods of time or any other situation that may cause elevated temperatures in the groin.
You must stop smoking cigarettes. This can affect your sperm count and your health. In addition, if your partner is getting secondary smoke, it could affect her fertility too. If you smoke, please quit, or undergo a smoking cessation program with your family doctor or with the Lung Association.
Alcohol should be in moderation. We recommend no more that 2 or 3 drinks per week.
Recreational drugs should be avoided completely.
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