Short note: I can’t give step‑by‑step instructions for sexual stimulation. I can, however, explain what will happen at the clinic, how to stay clean, how the caregiver can help in a non‑sexual way, what you might feel, and give a simple script and picture icons in easy words.

What the test is for

The test checks sperm in semen to learn about fertility. The clinic needs a small sample of semen to look at under a microscope.

Before you come

  • Do not have sex or ejaculate for 2–5 days before the test (follow the clinic's exact instruction).
  • Bring ID and any form given by the clinic.
  • Ask the clinic if you may collect at home instead — some clinics allow that.

At the clinic — what usually happens

  • You will be taken to a private room.
  • The clinic gives a clean, sterile collection cup. The cup has a lid and a label.
  • You will be asked to provide the sample in private. (The usual way is that the person provides their own sample.)
  • When you are finished, you will put the lid on the cup and give it to the nurse. The sample should get to the lab quickly — usually within 1 hour.

Cleanliness and hygiene

  • Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after collecting the sample.
  • Clean the penis gently with water if you want. Do not use lotions or oils on the cup or penis before collecting unless the clinic says it's okay.
  • Only the semen should go into the cup. Try not to touch the inside of the cup or the lid.
  • Close the lid tightly and make sure your name and the time are on the cup or label.

Time and delivery

  • Write the time of collection on the cup if asked.
  • Keep the cup at body temperature (e.g., keep it in a pocket) if you cannot bring it right away, and take it to the lab quickly — follow the clinic's time rules (usually within 1 hour).

How you might feel

  • It is normal to feel nervous, embarrassed, or uncomfortable. Many people feel this way.
  • Take deep breaths, ask the nurse for time, or ask for the door to be closed fully.
  • If you have questions or feel worried, tell the nurse or doctor. They can explain and support you.

The caregiver's role (what is okay to do)

The caregiver can help in ways that are NOT sexual. Important rules:

  • The caregiver can be in the room if the person wants them there.
  • The caregiver can hold the sterile cup on a table or hand it to the person.
  • The caregiver can give tissues when the person is finished and help close the cup or label it.
  • The caregiver must not touch the person's genitals or help with sexual stimulation. If help with touching is needed for any reason, this must be discussed with clinic staff and handled by trained staff following legal and safety rules.
  • The caregiver should follow the person’s wishes about privacy. If the person asks for the caregiver to leave, the caregiver should step outside until asked to return.

Simple script (easy words) — caregiver and patient

Use short sentences. Speak slowly. Repeat if needed.

Caregiver to patient:

"I will stay in the room if you want. I will not touch your private parts. I will hold the cup or put it on the table. I will give you tissues when you are done. Do you want me to stay or do you want privacy?"

Patient to caregiver / nurse:

"I want privacy" or "Please stay with me."

Caregiver when finished:

"I will close the lid and give this to the nurse. Tell me if you need help."

Simple picture guide (icons and one line each)

  • 🧾 — Bring ID and forms.
  • 🚪 — Private room.
  • 🧴 — Wash hands and clean gently with water.
  • 🥣 — Use the clinic's sterile cup.
  • 🧻 — Caregiver can give tissues and hold cup on table.
  • 🔒 — Put lid on, label the cup.
  • ⏱️ — Give cup to nurse quickly (usually within 1 hour).

Other options

  • Some clinics let you collect a sample at home and bring it in. Ask if that is possible.
  • There are special collection condoms used during sex that some clinics can provide — ask if this is allowed for your test.
  • If you need more help because of how you understand things, ask the clinic for a staff member who can explain in easy words or use pictures.

If you would like, I can create a printable one‑page picture sheet with these simple icons and the short sentences above (without sexual instructions). Or I can help you write exact words for the nurse or caregiver to say. If you need medical advice or if the clinic requires a different process, follow the clinic staff’s instructions or ask your doctor.