The Regional Fertility Program provides complete services for the diagnosis of male fertility disorders. The investigation of male fertility always begins with a complete semen analysis. Specialized testing for abnormalities of the sperm parameters is ordered when indicated including genetic testing for abnormal male karyotypes, Y chromosome microdeletions and DNA fragmentation of sperm.

The Diagnostic Semen Laboratory (DSL) provides specialized services related to the evaluation and treatment of male fertility. The DSL is accredited and inspected by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta as well as by Health Canada. The DSL provides the following services:

• Complete semen analysis
• Immunological testing for antisperm antibodies
• Sperm washing for Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
• Cryopreservation of sperm when required for:
  • Surgically retrieved sperm samples (PESA, MESA, and microTESE)
  • Vibrostimulation and electroejaculation sperm samples
  • Fertility preservation for adolescents and men undergoing fertility damaging treatments for cancer and other medical conditions
  • Fertility preservation for transgender individuals wishing to freeze sperm
• Storage and processing of frozen Donor Sperm
• Male karyotype testing
• Y-chromosome microdeletions
• DNA sperm fragmentation analysis

For further information regarding semen analysis, please check out our frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)

All requests for testing and treatments, including semen analysis, are by appointment only. If you need to reschedule or cancel an appointment, please call the DSL at (403) 284-9410 . We require 24 hour’s notice of cancellation, otherwise there will be a $50.00 missed appointment fee.

*Note: Due to the processing time for semen analysis, appointments are scheduled between 08:00 and 11:00 a.m. Monday – Friday excluding statutory holidays.

• using the online appointment booking window shown above,
• calling the Diagnostic Semen Laboratory (DSL) at (403) 284-9410, or
• making your appointment in person with the receptionist at the DSL.

Please Note: Currently, online booking is available only for existing RFP patients needing complete semen analysis. For all other specialized testing requests, please call the DSL directly.

When you undergo treatment at the RFP your appointments will be pre-arranged by the nursing staff. IVF/ICSI and intrauterine insemination (IUI) samples are collected the day of the procedure. Please note that patients providing samples for treatment procedures must present government issued I.D. (with photo and signature) at the time of collection. The semen sample cannot be accepted without proper identification.

The Diagnostic Semen Laboratory is located on the third floor of the Cambrian Centre at Suite 301, 2000 Veteran’s Place NW.