ESHRE-SIGA Course on Basic Semen Analysis
The CFAS anticipates to hold this course again in 2018
more information to come
December, 2016
Introduction: The CFAS is proud to launch another laboratory course for CFAS members. The course will provide members with the theoretical and practical skills needed to perform basic semen analysis. Attendees will receive a certificate from ESHRE. This is a rare opportunity. The course was last taught in Canada more than 10 years ago. Register with the CFAS office early as space is limited to a maximum of 20 participants.
Course Overview: The course begins with registration and introductory lectures commencing on the evening of December 1st.
Participants will be exposed to both the theory and practical components of semen analysis. On Day 1, participants will discuss the methods recommended in the WHO laboratory manual (2010) and as specified by the ESHRE Special Interest Group in Andrology (SIGA). Afternoons are allocated to practical laboratory work. Participants will examine two samples each on Day 1 and will practice the methods (first sperm count, sperm motility, and then sperm morphology and sperm vitality) on days 2 and 3. The results from these practical sessions will be used for discussions about assessment techniques and quality control in the andrology laboratory. There will also be a practical on the detection of sperm antibodies. The course is divided into theoretical and practical components.
On the last day (Day 4), there will be a written examination, followed by a practical examination.
Instructor: Sharon Mortimer, PhD Reproductive Biology
Course Fee: $850 for members
$1,000 for non-CFAS members
Fee includes: lectures, textbook (“Practical Guide to Basic Laboratory Andrology”), printed handouts of presentations, practical exercises, lab coats, lunch and breaks. The WHO laboratory manual is not included.
Location: University of Toronto, Physiology Building, 1 Kings College Circle.
Accommodation: Participants are responsible for their own accommodations. However, special rates will be available at a selected hotel nearby the course (TBD).
Prerequisites Previous experience performing semen analysis is required
Registration: Send an e-mail to CFAS at by October 14th to reserve your spot.
Space is limited to 20 participants. Preference given to CFAS members.
| Day 0 | |
| 18:00 – 19:30 | Registration and get together (light food) |
| 19:30 – 21:00 | 1. Introduction to course and WHO Lab Manual (2010) |
| Day 1 | |
| 09:00 – 10:30 | 2. Clinical Significance of Semen Analysis 1(2) |
| 10:30 – 10:45 | Coffee |
| 10:45 – 11:15 | 2. Clinical Significance of Semen Analysis 2(2) |
| 11:15 – 11:30 | Pause |
| 11:30 – 12:00 | 3. Sample Collection and Macroscopic Examination |
| 12:00 – 12:30 | General Discussion |
| 12:30 – 13:30 | Lunch |
| 13:30 – 18:00 | PRACTICAL: Pre-test [afternoon coffee around 15.00] |
| Day 2 | |
| 09:00 – 09:30 | 4. Examination of the Wet Preparation |
| 09:30 – 09:45 | Discussion of results from Pre-test |
| 09:45 – 10:15 | Coffee |
| 10:15 – 11:00 | 5. Sperm Concentration Measurement |
| 11:00 – 11:15 | Pause |
| 11:15 – 12:00 | 6. Sperm Motility Assessment |
| 12:00 – 12:30 | 7. Introduction to Sperm Kinematics |
| 12:30 – 13:30 | Lunch |
| 13:30 – 18:00 | PRACTICAL: Training session 1 (concentration and motility) CASA demonstration; coffee at 15.00 |
| Day 3 | |
| 09:00 – 10:00 | 8. Sperm Morphology Evaluation – Seminar |
| 10:00 – 10:15 | Results of Training Session 1 |
| 10:15 – 10:45 | Coffee |
| 10:45 – 11:15 | 9. Assessment of Sperm Vitality |
| 11:15 – 12:15 | 10. Antisperm Antibodies |
| 12:15 – 12:30 | General Discussion |
| 12:30 – 13:30 | Lunch |
| 13:30 – 18:00 | PRACTICAL: Training session 2 (morphology, vitality and antibodies) CASA demonstration if possible (morphology); coffee at 15.00 |
| Day 4 | |
| 09:00 – 09:45 | 11. Sperm Preparation Methods |
| 09:45 – 10:00 | Results of Training Session 2 |
| 10:00 – 10:15 | Coffee |
| 10:15 – 11:30 | 12. Introduction to Basic Principles of Quality Management |
| 11:30 – 11:45 | General Discussion |
| 11:45 – 12:45 | Lunch |
| 12:45 – 13:45 | Written examination |
| 13:45 – 14:00 | Break |
| 14:00 – 17:30 | Practical examination (coffee available between 15.00 and 16.30) |
| 17:30 – 18:00 | Summary of the course |