When you receive the sample collection kit, store it at room temperature, at a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight until use. Keep locked up and away from children. Some tests may require components that may be harmful by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption. Follow individual safety instructions for these tests.

Returning the samples to our laboratory for analysis:

1) If your Fertilysis Box includes a return label:
You should have also received an email from DHL regarding this label. (Please read the instructions in that email carefully — you do not need to reprint the labels).

In this case, you have two options for returning the samples:

Option A: Drop-off at a DHL Service Point
Use the return label provided inside the box and drop the parcel off at an official DHL shop.
Important: If your box contains peripheral blood samples, please avoid dropping it off at a third-party DHL partner location, as this may cause additional transit delays.

Option B: Schedule a pick-up from your location
You can either:

• Contact your local DHL office using the tracking number on the return label, or

• Click the green button in the email you received from DHL to arrange the pick-up online.

Note: We recommend scheduling the pick-up from the same address that is written on the return label.

2) If your Fertilysis Box does not include a return label:

Request a pick-up through our website

• Log in (or register) on our website at least 3–4 days before your desired pick-up date.

• Click on "REQUEST PICK-UP."

• Enter the unique 10-digit Box ID, found on the biohazard bag inside your box.

• Complete the form with the required sample and patient information, the pick-up address, and your preferred date.

• After submitting your request, you will receive a confirmation email from DHL with new return labels attached.

Please note: This process is not automated and may take over 24 hours, as it requires manual handling by DHL.

During sample collection, follow the test-specific instructions in the relevant section below:

• On the date of sample pick-up or drop-off, place the vials in the clear "biohazard" plastic bag and seal it. Then, place the bag in your Fertiysis Box, including any Styrofoam or other type of space filler in order to stop the bag from rolling around in the box during transport. Finally, stick the "EXEMPT HUMAN SPECIMEN" sticker on the outside top of the box, unless it’s already attached to the biohazard bag with your sample tubes and vials.

• You don't need to write any address or information on the box. Just place it inside the DHL flyer bag, seal it and hand it over to the DHL driver or drop it off together with the printed-out shipping documentation you received in your e-mail. Your box will be sent to our laboratories for processing, and you will receive your results by e-mail. Turnaround time differs for each test but is usually less than 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer.

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Dry vaginal swab x 2 (“Swab(s)”)

FOR BEST RESULTS: 
You may collect your vaginal swab samples at any time in your cycle as long as you are not on your period, either right after it ends (see below) or before it starts.

• While our testing methodology relies on molecular techniques and is thereby unaffected by the use of antibiotics, we recommend, when feasible, a prudent waiting period of approximately one week post-treatment before pursuing testing. This interval facilitates the stabilization of the microbiome, ensuring a more accurate representation of microbial dynamics for a comprehensive assessment. For the same reason we recommend not using vaginal probiotics for about 2-3 days before sample collection.
• We recommend a period of  1-2 days of abstinence from unprotected sexual activity. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the potential for false positive results arising from the transfer of bacteria and microflora from the male partner during sexual intercourse. Adhering to this guideline ensures a more accurate representation of the female microbiome, contributing to the reliability and precision of the testing outcomes.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

After your period ends or before it starts…

1. Collect the Vaginal Sample by using the two (2) Swabs provided with your FERTILYSIS Box following the instructions below. First wash your hands thoroughly and undress from the waist down. For both Swabs the technique of specimen collection is the same. Get into a position where you can comfortably insert a swab into your vagina such as sitting on the toilet, or standing with one foot on a chair, or any position that you would use to insert a tampon.

2. Open the swab. Open the transparent plastic packaging and take the sealed Swab out of the package. Twist it first to break the seal. Then pull. The Swab will stay attached to the cap. Do NOT throw the plastic tube and the plastic packaging away! You will need to put each Swab in it after you have collected the sample.

3. Insert the white tip of the Swab about one inch inside the opening of your vagina. If it helps, you can grip the swab 1’’ away from the end of the soil lip, so your fingers will touch your body when the Swab is in far enough.

4. Rotate the Swab for 15 seconds. You should make sure that the Swab touches the walls of your vagina so that moisture is absorbed into the swab.

5. Remove the Swab from your vagina. Don’t let the tip of the swab touch anything else. Place each used Swab back into its corresponding transport tube. Close tightly to prevent it from opening during transport.

6. Fill in all the required information and store the samples until shipping. Write your personal information on the labels of both tubes and attach the stickers(labels) with your name on them. Put the swabs back in the transparent plastic packaging.  The vaginal swab samples should be stored in the freezer until shipping. The samples should be shipped at ambient temperature—no ice packs are required during transit.

7. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the menstrual blood sample container (the Sample Vial with its Outer Protective Tube) and the two vaginal sample Swabs with their corresponding tubes in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Microbiome Analysis tests is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Outer protective gray colored tube x1 (“Outer Protective Tube”)
• Inner clear sample vial x1 (“Sample Vial”)
• Menstrual blood sample Preservative small tube x1 (“Sample Preservative”)*
• Dry vaginal swab x 2 (“Swab(s)”)

* IMPORTANT NOTE: Depending on your geographical area, the pink Sample Preservative may not be required and thus may not be included in your FERTILYSIS Box.

FOR BEST RESULTS:

• We recommend collecting your menstrual blood sample as soon as you get your period, ideally within the first 24 hours (ideally the first 12 hours). Only a small amount of menstrual blood is required (about a teaspoon’s worth of sample should be enough) but if you are not able to manage even that amount on your first day of bleeding then, you may collect your sample on the second day of your period.
• You may collect your vaginal swab samples at any time in your cycle as long as you are not on your period, either right after it ends (see below) or before it starts.
• While our testing methodology relies on molecular techniques and is thereby unaffected by the use of antibiotics, we recommend, when feasible, a prudent waiting period of approximately one week post-treatment before pursuing testing. This interval facilitates the stabilization of the microbiome, ensuring a more accurate representation of microbial dynamics for a comprehensive assessment. For the same reason we recommend not using vaginal probiotics for about 2-3 days before sample collection.
• We recommend a period of  1-2 days of abstinence from unprotected sexual activity. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the potential for false positive results arising from the transfer of bacteria and microflora from the male partner during sexual intercourse. Adhering to this guideline ensures a more accurate representation of the female microbiome, contributing to the reliability and precision of the testing outcomes.

 STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

As soon as your period begins…

1. Collect the menstrual blood sample. In a squatting position, place the Sample Vial’s rim at the entry of the vagina and allow the menstrual fluid to flow into the sample collection vial. Naturally occurring blood clots or mucus in the sample are normal and will not affect the results. Alternatively, if you find it more convenient, you may use a different sterile container with a broader opening, such as a urine test cup, to initially collect the sample and then transfer it into the Sample Vial.
2. Add the Sample Preservative*. After completion of the sample collection, carefully open the small tube labeled Sample Preservative (pink fluid) and empty its content into the Sample Vial in which you have already collected the menstrual blood mixing the two together. *

*Note: Depending on your geographical area, the pink Sample Preservative may not be required and thus may not be included in your box. In this case, you may omit this step and move on to step 3 below.

1. Write your information and store the sample until shipping. Carefully close the Sample Vial, insert it into its Outer Protective Tube and screw the cap tightly. Fill in your information on the labels of both the inside Sample Vial as well as the outside Outer Protective Tube. Store the sample in the freezer until shipping. The sample ships at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.

After your period ends or before it starts…

1. Collect the Vaginal Sample by using the two (2) Swabs provided with your FERTILYSIS Box following the instructions below. First wash your hands thoroughly and undress from the waist down. For both Swabs the technique of specimen collection is the same. Get into a position where you can comfortably insert a swab into your vagina such as sitting on the toilet, or standing with one foot on a chair, or any position that you would use to insert a tampon.

2. Open the swab. Take the sealed Swab out of the package and twist it first to break the seal. Then pull. The Swab will stay attached to the cup. Do NOT throw the plastic tube away! You will need to put each Swab in it after you have collected the sample.

3. Insert the white tip of the Swab about one inch inside the opening of your vagina. If it helps, you can grip the swab 1’’ away from the end of the soil lip, so your fingers will touch your body when the Swab is in far enough.
4. Rotate the Swab for 15 seconds. You should make sure that the Swab touches the walls of your vagina so that moisture is absorbed into the swab.

5. Remove the Swab from your vagina. Don’t let the tip of the swab touch anything else. Place each used Swab back into its corresponding transport tube. Close tightly to prevent it from opening during transport.

6. Fill in all the required information and store the samples until shipping. Write your personal information on the labels of both tubes. The vaginal Swab samples should be stored in the freezer until shipping. The samples ship at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.

7. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the menstrual blood sample container (the Sample Vial with its Outer Protective Tube) and the two vaginal sample Swabs with their corresponding tubes in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Microbiome Analysis tests is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Dry vaginal swab x 2 (“Swab(s)”)

FOR BEST RESULTS: 
You may collect your vaginal swab samples at any time in your cycle as long as you are not on your period, either right after it ends (see below) or before it starts.

• While our testing methodology relies on molecular techniques and is thereby unaffected by the use of antibiotics, we recommend, when feasible, a prudent waiting period of approximately one week post-treatment before pursuing testing. This interval facilitates the stabilization of the microbiome, ensuring a more accurate representation of microbial dynamics for a comprehensive assessment. For the same reason we recommend not using vaginal probiotics for about 2-3 days before sample collection.
• We recommend a period of  1-2 days of abstinence from unprotected sexual activity. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the potential for false positive results arising from the transfer of bacteria and microflora from the male partner during sexual intercourse. Adhering to this guideline ensures a more accurate representation of the female microbiome, contributing to the reliability and precision of the testing outcomes.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

After your period ends or before it starts…

1. Collect the Vaginal Sample by using the two (2) Swabs provided with your FERTILYSIS Box following the instructions below. First wash your hands thoroughly and undress from the waist down. For both Swabs the technique of specimen collection is the same. Get into a position where you can comfortably insert a swab into your vagina such as sitting on the toilet, or standing with one foot on a chair, or any position that you would use to insert a tampon.

2. Open the swab. Take the sealed Swab out of the package and twist it first to break the seal. Then pull. The Swab will stay attached to the cup. Do NOT throw the plastic tube away! You will need to put each Swab in it after you have collected the sample.

3. Insert the white tip of the Swab about one inch inside the opening of your vagina. If it helps, you can grip the swab 1’’ away from the end of the soil lip, so your fingers will touch your body when the Swab is in far enough.

4. Rotate the Swab for 15 seconds. You should make sure that the Swab touches the walls of your vagina so that moisture is absorbed into the swab.

5. Remove the Swab from your vagina. Don’t let the tip of the swab touch anything else. Place each used Swab back into its corresponding transport tube. Close tightly to prevent it from opening during transport.

6. Fill in all the required information and store the samples until shipping. Write your personal information on the labels of both tubes. The vaginal Swab samples should be stored in the freezer until shipping. The samples ship at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.

7. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the menstrual blood sample container (the Sample Vial with its Outer Protective Tube) and the two vaginal sample Swabs with their corresponding tubes in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Microbiome Analysis tests is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Outer protective gray colored tube x1 (“Outer Protective Tube”)
• Inner clear sample vial x1 (“Sample Vial”)
• Menstrual blood sample Preservative small tube x1 (“Sample Preservative”)*
• Dry vaginal swab x 2 (“Swab(s)”)

* IMPORTANT NOTE: Depending on your geographical area, the pink Sample Preservative may not be required and thus may not be included in your FERTILYSIS Box.

FOR BEST RESULTS:

• We recommend collecting your menstrual blood sample as soon as you get your period, ideally within the first 6 to 12 hours. Only a small amount of menstrual blood is required (about a teaspoon’s worth of sample should be enough) but if you are not able to manage even that amount on your first day of bleeding then, you may collect your sample on the second day of your period.
• You may collect your vaginal swab samples at any time in your cycle as long as you are not on your period – usually right after it ends (see below).
• While our testing methodology relies on molecular techniques and is thereby unaffected by the use of antibiotics, we recommend, when feasible, a prudent waiting period of approximately one week post-treatment before pursuing retesting. This interval facilitates the stabilization of the microbiome, ensuring a more accurate representation of microbial dynamics for a comprehensive assessment. For the same reason we recommend not using vaginal probiotics for about 2-3 days before sample collection.
• We recommend a period of  1-2 days of abstinence from unprotected sexual activity. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the potential for false positive results arising from the transfer of bacteria and microflora from the male partner during sexual intercourse. Adhering to this guideline ensures a more accurate representation of the female microbiome, contributing to the reliability and precision of the testing outcomes.

 STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

As soon as your period begins…

1. Collect the menstrual blood sample. In a squatting position, place the Sample Vial’s rim at the entry of the vagina and allow the menstrual fluid to flow into the sample collection vial. Naturally occurring blood clots or mucus in the sample are normal and will not affect the results. Alternatively, if you find it more convenient, you may use a different sterile container with a broader opening, such as a urine test cup, to initially collect the sample and then transfer it into the Sample Vial.
2. Add the Sample Preservative*. After completion of the sample collection, carefully open the small tube labeled Sample Preservative (pink fluid) and empty its content into the Sample Vial in which you have already collected the menstrual blood mixing the two together. *

*Note: Depending on your geographical area, the pink Sample Preservativemay not be required and thus may not be included in your box. In this case, you may omit this step and move on to step 3 below.

1. Write your information and store the sample until shipping. Carefully close the Sample Vial, insert it into its Outer Protective Tube and screw the cap tightly. Fill in your information on the labels of both the inside Sample Vial as well as the outside Outer Protective Tube. Store the sample in the freezer until shipping. The sample ships at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.

After your period ends or before it starts…

1. Collect the Vaginal Sample by using the two (2) Swabs provided with your FERTILYSIS BOX following the instructions below. First wash your hands thoroughly and undress from the waist down. For both Swabs the technique of specimen collection is the same. Get into a position where you can comfortably insert a swab into your vagina such as sitting on the toilet, or standing with one foot on a chair, or any position that you would use to insert a tampon.

2. Open the swab. Take the sealed Swab out of the package and twist it first to break the seal. Then pull. The Swab will stay attached to the cup. Do NOT throw the plastic tube away! You will need to put each Swab in it after you have collected the sample.

3. Insert the white tip of the Swab about one inch inside the opening of your vagina. If it helps, you can grip the swab 1’’ away from the end of the soil lip, so your fingers will touch your body when the Swab is in far enough.

4. Rotate the Swab for 15 seconds. You should make sure that the Swab touches the walls of your vagina so that moisture is absorbed into the swab.

5. Remove the Swab from your vagina. Don’t let the tip of the swab touch anything else. Place each used Swab back into its corresponding transport tube. Close tightly to prevent it from opening during transport.

6. Fill in all the required information and store the samples until shipping. Write your personal information on the labels of both tubes. The vaginal Swab samples should be stored in the freezer until shipping. The samples ship at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.

7. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the menstrual blood sample container (the Sample Vial with its Outer Protective Tube) and the two vaginal sample Swabs with their corresponding tubes in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Microbiome Analysis tests is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

Please read these instructions carefully before collecting your sample.

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Dry vaginal swab x 2 (“Swab(s)”)

FOR BEST RESULTS:

You may collect your vaginal swab samples at any time in your cycle as long as you are not on your period.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Before or After your period …

1. Collect the Vaginal Sample by using the two (2) Swabs provided with your FERTILYSIS Box following the instructions below. First wash your hands thoroughly and undress from the waist down. For both Swabs the technique of specimen collection is the same. Get into a position where you can comfortably insert a swab into your vagina such as sitting on the toilet, or standing with one foot on a chair, or any position that you would use to insert a tampon.

2. Open the swab. Take the sealed Swab out of the package and twist it first to break the seal. Then pull. The Swab will stay attached to the cap. Do NOT throw the plastic tube away! You will need to put each Swab in it after you have collected the sample.

3. Insert the white tip of the Swab about one inch inside the opening of your vagina. If it helps, you can grip the swab 1’’ away from the end of the soil lip, so your fingers will touch your body when the Swab is in far enough.

4. Rotate the Swab for 15 seconds. You should make sure that the Swab touches the walls of your vagina so that moisture is absorbed into the swab.

5. Remove the Swab from your vagina. Don’t let the tip of the swab touch anything else. Place each used Swab back into its corresponding transport tube. Close tightly to prevent it from opening during transport.

6. Fill in all the required information and store the samples until shipping. Write your personal information on the labels of both tubes and attach the stickers(labels) with your name on them. Put the swabs back in the transparent plastic packaging.  The vaginal swab samples should be stored in the freezer until shipping. The samples should be shipped at ambient temperature—no ice packs are required during transit.

7. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the two vaginal sample Swabs with their corresponding tubes in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Microbiome Analysis tests is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

Arrange for a healthcare professional to draw the peripheral blood samples for you, preferably on a Monday*. A certified healthcare professional (e.g., nurse, lab technician or physician) can perform this simple blood collection using our enclosed vials according to the instructions below, in a licensed medical facility in your area. If needed, we will provide you with a blood sample requisition letter to use with your local GP, laboratory, or clinic. 

Returning the samples to our laboratory for analysis:

1) If your Fertilysis Box includes a return label:
You should have also received an email from DHL regarding this label. (Please read the instructions in that email carefully — you do not need to reprint the labels).

In this case, you have two options for returning the samples:

Option A: Drop-off at a DHL Service Point
Use the return label provided inside the box and drop the parcel off at an official DHL shop.
Important: If your box contains peripheral blood samples, please avoid dropping it off at a third-party DHL partner location, as this may cause additional transit delays.

Option B: Schedule a pick-up from your location
You can either:

• Contact your local DHL office using the tracking number on the return label, or

• Click the green button in the email you received from DHL to arrange the pick-up online.

Please note: We recommend scheduling the pick-up from the same address that is written on the return label.

2) If your Fertilysis Box does not include a return label:

Request a pick-up through our website

• Log in (or register) on our website at least 3–4 days before your desired pick-up date.

• Click on "REQUEST PICK-UP."

• Enter the unique 10-digit Box ID, found on the biohazard bag inside your box.

• Complete the form with the required sample and patient information, the pick-up address, and your preferred date.

• After submitting your request, you will receive a confirmation email from DHL with new return labels attached.

Please note: This process is not automated and may take over 24 hours, as it requires manual handling by DHL.

During sample collection, follow the test-specific instructions in the relevant section below:

• On the date of sample pick-up or drop-off, place the vials in the clear "biohazard" plastic bag and seal it. Then, place the bag in your Fertiysis Box, including any Styrofoam or other type of space filler in order to stop the bag from rolling around in the box during transport. Finally, stick the "EXEMPT HUMAN SPECIMEN" sticker on the outside top of the box, unless it’s already attached to the biohazard bag with your sample tubes and vials.

• You don't need to write any address or information on the box. Just place it inside the DHL flyer bag, seal it and hand it over to the DHL driver or drop it off together with the printed-out shipping documentation you received in your e-mail. Your box will be sent to our laboratories for processing, and you will receive your results by e-mail. Turnaround time differs for each test but is usually less than 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer.

* In order to avoid the weekend which could extend shipping time considerably, you should arrange sample collection and pick-up to take place on a Monday if possible, and not later during the week.

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vials x2 (“Lavender vacutainer”)
• Green Peripheral Blood/Sodium heparin collection vials x4 (“Green Vacutainers”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner (no male partner bloods are required for this test):

• 2x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~4ml of sample)
• 4x Green Vacutainers (for a total of ~16 ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the labels of the Lavender vacutainers and the Green Vacutainers . Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place all Lavender vacutainers and Green Vacutainers in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the FERTILYSIS Reproductive Autoimmunity test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vials x6 (“Lavender vacutainer”)
• Yellow Serum Separator collection vials x2 (“Yellow Vacutainers”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner:

• 3x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~6ml of sample)
• 1x Yellow Vacutainer (centrifuged**)

** We recommend that, if possible, before being handed over to you, Yellow Vacutainers need to be centrifuged by the lab performing the sample collection for separation of blood cells from serum. This will increase sample quality and viability.

Male Partner:

• 3x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~6ml of sample)
• 1x Yellow Vacutainer (centrifuged**)

** We recommend that, if possible, before being handed over to you, Yellow Vacutainers need to be centrifuged by the lab performing the sample collection for separation of blood cells from serum. This will increase sample quality and viability.

1. Write your information and store the samples until pickup for shipping. Fill in each partner’s information on the labels of your corresponding Lavender vacutainers and Yellow Vacutainers.
2. Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
3. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” section on the top of the instructions page above, place all vacutainers inside the plastic biohazard bag and seal it. Finally, place the bag in your Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the FERTILYSIS Reproductive Alloimmunity test is usually within 10 to 20 business days (some of the tests included in the panel require longer turnaround times) unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vials x7(“Lavender vacutainers”)
• Green Peripheral Blood/Sodium heparin collection vials x4 (“Green Vacutainers”)
• Yellow Serum Separator collection vials x2 (“Yellow Vacutainers”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner:

• 4x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~8ml of sample)
• 4x Green Vacutainers (for a total of ~16 ml of sample)
• 1x Yellow Vacutainer (centrifuged**)

** We recommend that, if possible, before being handed over to you, Yellow Vacutainers need to be centrifuged by the lab performing the sample collection for separation of blood cells from serum. This will increase sample quality and viability.

Male Partner:

• 3x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~6ml of sample)
• 1x Yellow Vacutainer (centrifuged**)

** We recommend that, if possible, before being handed over to you, Yellow Vacutainers need to be centrifuged by the lab performing the sample collection for separation of blood cells from serum. This will increase sample quality and viability.

1. Write your information and store the samples until pickup for shipping. Fill in each partner’s information on the labels of your corresponding Lavender vacutainers, Green Vacutainers and Yellow Vacutainers.
2. Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
3. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” section on the top of the instructions page above, place all vacutainers inside the plastic biohazard bag and seal it. Finally, place the bag in your Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the FERTILYSIS Reproductive Full panel is usually within 10 to 20 business days (some of the tests included in the panel require longer turnaround times) unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vials x2 (“Lavender vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner (no male partner bloods are required for this test):

2x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~4ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the labels of the Lavender vacutainers. Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis box” instructions, place all Lavender vacutainers in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the NK cell profile test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Green Peripheral Blood/Sodium heparin collection vials x2 (“Green vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner (no male partner bloods are required for this test):

2x Green vacutainers (for a total of ~4ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the labels of the Green vacutainers. Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis box” instructions, place all Green vacutainers in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the NK cell cytotoxicity assay test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1

• DHL plastic bag x1

• Green Peripheral Blood/Sodium heparin collection vials x2 (“Green Vacutainers”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Before blood sample collection…

1. Arrange for a healthcare professional to draw the peripheral blood samples for you, preferably on a Monday*. A certified healthcare professional (e.g., nurse, lab technician or physician) can perform this simple blood collection using our enclosed vials according to the instructions below, in a licensed medical facility in your area. If needed, we will provide you with a blood sample requisition letter to use with your local GP, laboratory, or clinic.

2. Make a pickup request online. As soon as you know the date of the sample collection, use our on-line system to arrange sample pickup on the same day. More specifically, to arrange for transportation of your samples back to our laboratories for analysis, one or two days prior to sample pick-up, log in (or register) on our website and click on "Sample Pickup". You will be required to enter the unique 10-digit Box ID number found on the box, fill in sample and patient information, sample pickup address and desired pickup date (the day on which you have arranged for your bloods to be collected).

* In order to avoid the weekend which could extend shipping time considerably, you should arrange sample collection and pick-up to take place on a Monday if possible, and not later during the week.

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping: Female Partner (no male partner bloods are required for this test): 2x Green Vacutainers (for a total of ~8 ml of sample)

2. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the labels of the Green Vacutainers . Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.

3. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis box” instructions, place all Green Vacutainers in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Th1/Th2 Cytokine Ratio Assay test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vials x2 (“Lavender vacutainer”)
• Yellow Serum Separator collection vials x2 (“Yellow Vacutainers”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner:

• 1x Lavender vacutainers (~2ml of sample)
• 1x Yellow Vacutainer (centrifuged**)

** We recommend that, if possible, before being handed over to you, Yellow Vacutainers need to be centrifuged by the lab performing the sample collection for separation of blood cells from serum. This will increase sample quality and viability.

Male Partner:

• 1x Lavender vacutainers (~2ml of sample)
• 1x Yellow Vacutainer (centrifuged**)

** We recommend that, if possible, before being handed over to you, Yellow Vacutainers need to be centrifuged by the lab performing the sample collection for separation of blood cells from serum. This will increase sample quality and viability.

1. Write your information and store the samples until pickup for shipping. Fill in each partner’s information on the labels of your corresponding Lavender vacutainers and Yellow Vacutainers.
2. Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
3. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis box” section on the top of the instructions page above, place all vacutainers in the plastic biohazard bag and seal it. Finally, place the bag in your Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Leukocyte Antibody Detection Panel (LAD) test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vial x2 (“Lavender vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner:

• 1x Lavender vacutainers (~2ml of sample)

Male Partner:

• 1x Lavender vacutainers (~2ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the labels of the Lavender vacutainers. Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place all Lavender vacutainers in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the HLA-DQα-1 partner matching test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vial x1 (“Lavender vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vial should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

• 1x Lavender vacutainer (~2ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the label of the Lavender vacutainer. Store the vial at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The sample is transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the sample for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the Lavender vacutainer in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the HLA-C typing test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vial x2 (“Lavender vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner:

• 1x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~2ml of sample)

Male Partner:

• 1x Lavender vacutainers (for a total of ~2ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the labels of the Lavender vacutainers. Store the vials at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place all Lavender vacutainers in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the KIR typing test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vial x1 (“Lavender vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

• Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vial should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:
• 1x Lavender vacutainer (~2ml of sample)
• Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the label of the Lavender vacutainer. Store the vial at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The sample is transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
• Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the sample for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the Lavender vacutainer in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

 TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the KIR - HLA-C mismatch test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1

• DHL plastic bag x1

• Outer protective gray colored tube x1 (“Outer Protective Tube”)

• Inner clear sample vial x1 (“Sample Vial”)

• Male Microbiome Sample Preservative small tube x1 (“Sample Preservative”)

• Red-lid Plastic Cup x1 (“Plastic Cup”)

• Pipette x1
  
  * IMPORTANT NOTE: Depending on your geographical area, the Sample Preservative may not be required and thus may not be included in your FERTILYSIS Box.

BEFORE SAMPLE COLLECTION:

• Good hand and genital hygiene is recommended.

• Sample collection should take place by masturbation.

• The complete semen ejaculate must be collected.

• Use of a condom for semen specimen collection is not allowed unless specifically designed for this purpose

• While male microbiome testing, unlike semen analysis, does not require any duration of sexual abstinence, we advocate a recommended period of at least 1-2 days of abstinence from unprotected sexual activity. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the potential for false positive results arising from the transfer of bacteria and microflora from the female partner during sexual intercourse. Adhering to this guideline ensures a more accurate representation of the male microbiome, contributing to the reliability and precision of the testing outcomes.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Remove the red lid off the Plastic Cup so that it will be easy to use at the time of ejaculation. You will use this container to collect all sperm during ejaculation. In addition to this test, if you have also ordered other sperm tests such as for example DNA Fragmentation (DFI) testing, this sample can be used for all semen-requiring tests, by using the included pipette to divide the collected semen sample between tests as per each test’s individual instructions.

2. After ejaculation in the Plastic Cup, close the lid and leave it at room temperature for about 20 min to 40 min until the semen liquefies (see below). Following ejaculation, semen normally thickens followed by gradual liquefaction. The liquefaction process usually takes between 20 to 40 min to complete but it can vary. You will know that the liquefaction process is complete when after a slight stirring of the container you can see the semen sample moving freely at the bottom of the container. If after 40 min liquefaction still hasn’t taken place, you will proceed to the next step anyway.

3. Following semen liquefaction, take out the included plastic pipette from its wrapping and use it transfer the semen sample (excluding approximately 0,5 ml of semen to be used with DFI testing in case you have also ordered that one) from the Plastic Cup into the Sample Vial. To use the pipette, press the “bulb” of the pipette and insert it into the Plastic Cup with the collected semen sample. Then, slowly release pressure off the pipette. When the required quantity of sample has been sucked into the pipette, without releasing the head of the pipette, remove it from the Plastic Cup and place the semen containing pipette into the Sample Vial. Gently press the head of the pipette again to slowly release its contents into the vial. See video on how to use Pasteur pipette here

4. Add the Sample Preservative*. Carefully unscrew the small plastic tube with the Sample Preservative and pour all its content into the semen-containing Sample Vial (if you have also ordered DNA Fragmentation (DFI) testing please make sure to use the Male Microbiome Sample Preservative and not getting it confused with the DFI Sample Preservative. Give it a gentle stir to mix the sample with the preservative, take care to safely tighten the lid, then insert the Sample Vial into the Outer Protective Tube. (You can discard the Plastic Cup)

*Note: Depending on your geographical area, the Sample Preservative may not be required and thus may not be included in your box. In this case, you may omit this step and move on to step 3 below.

1. Fill in all the required information. Fill in your personal information on both the Sample Vial and Outer Protective Tube.

2. Place the sample in the Freezer. Preferably store the sample in the freezer until shipping. The sample ships at ambient temperature conditions, no ice- packs are required.

3. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your box” instructions on the top of the page, place the sample container (the Sample Vial in its Outer Protective Tube) in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the FERTILYSIS Male Microbiome: Basic test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1

• DHL plastic bag x1

• Outer protective gray colored tube x1 (“Outer Protective Tube”)

• Inner clear sample vial x1 (“Sample Vial”)

• Male Microbiome Sample Preservative small tube x1 (“Sample Preservative”)

• Red-lid Plastic Cup x1 (“Plastic Cup”)

• Pipette x1
  
  * IMPORTANT NOTE: Depending on your geographical area, the Sample Preservative may not be required and thus may not be included in your FERTILYSIS Box.

BEFORE SAMPLE COLLECTION:

• Good hand and genital hygiene is recommended.

• Sample collection should take place by masturbation.

• The complete semen ejaculate must be collected.

• Use of a condom for semen specimen collection is not allowed unless specifically designed for this purpose

• While male microbiome testing, unlike semen analysis, does not require any duration of sexual abstinence, we advocate a recommended period of at least 1-2 days of abstinence from unprotected sexual activity. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the potential for false positive results arising from the transfer of bacteria and microflora from the female partner during sexual intercourse. Adhering to this guideline ensures a more accurate representation of the male microbiome, contributing to the reliability and precision of the testing outcomes.

• While our testing methodology relies on molecular techniques and is thereby unaffected by the use of antibiotics, we recommend, when feasible, a prudent waiting period of approximately one week post-treatment before pursuing retesting. This interval facilitates the stabilization of the microbiome, ensuring a more accurate representation of microbial dynamics for a comprehensive assessment. For the same reason we recommend not using probiotics for about 4-5 days before sample collection.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Remove the red lid off the Plastic Cup so that it will be easy to use at the time of ejaculation. You will use this container to collect all sperm during ejaculation. In addition to this test, if you have also ordered other sperm tests such as for example DNA Fragmentation (DFI) testing, this sample can be used for all semen-requiring tests, by using the included pipette to divide the collected semen sample between tests as per each test’s individual instructions.

2. After ejaculation in the Plastic Cup, close the lid and leave it at room temperature for about 20 min to 40 min until the semen liquefies (see below). Following ejaculation, semen normally thickens followed by gradual liquefaction. The liquefaction process usually takes between 20 to 40 min to complete but it can vary. You will know that the liquefaction process is complete when after a slight stirring of the container you can see the semen sample moving freely at the bottom of the container. If after 40 min liquefaction still hasn’t taken place, you will proceed to the next step anyway.

3. Following semen liquefaction, take out the included plastic pipette from its wrapping and use it transfer the semen sample (excluding approximately 0,5 ml of semen to be used with DFI testing in case you have also ordered that one) from the Plastic Cup into the Sample Vial. To use the pipette, press the “bulb” of the pipette and insert it into the Plastic Cup with the collected semen sample. Then, slowly release pressure off the pipette. When the required quantity of sample has been sucked into the pipette, without releasing the head of the pipette, remove it from the Plastic Cup and place the semen containing pipette into the Sample Vial. Gently press the head of the pipette again to slowly release its contents into the vial. See video on how to use Pasteur pipette here

4. Add the Sample Preservative*. Carefully unscrew the small plastic tube with the Sample Preservative and pour all its content into the semen-containing Sample Vial (if you have also ordered DNA Fragmentation (DFI) testing please make sure to use the Male Microbiome Sample Preservative and not getting it confused with the DFI Sample Preservative. Give it a gentle stir to mix the sample with the preservative, take care to safely tighten the lid, then insert the Sample Vial into the Outer Protective Tube. (You can discard the Plastic Cup)

*Note: Depending on your geographical area, the Sample Preservative may not be required and thus may not be included in your box. In this case, you may omit this step and move on to step 3 below.

1. Fill in all the required information. Fill in your personal information on both the Sample Vial and Outer Protective Tube.

2. Place the sample in the Freezer. Preferably store the sample in the freezer until shipping. The sample ships at ambient temperature conditions, no ice- packs are required.

3. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis box” instructions on the top of the page, place the sample container (the Sample Vial in its Outer Protective Tube) in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the FERTILYSIS Male Microbiome: Basic test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Outer protective gray colored tube x1 (“Outer Protective Tube”)
• Inner clear sample vial x1 (“Sample Vial”)
• DFI Preservative small tube x1 (“DFI Sample Preservative”)
• Red-lid Plastic Cup x1 (“Plastic Cup”)
• Pipette x1 

BEFORE SAMPLE COLLECTION:

• Good hand and genital hygiene is recommended.
• Sample collection should take place by masturbation.
• The complete semen ejaculate must be collected.
• Use of a condom for semen specimen collection is not allowed unless specifically designed for this purpose.
• Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) testing requires a period of sexual abstinence to obtain accurate results. Our recommended guideline is to abstain from sexual activity, including ejaculation, for a period of no less than 1 day and no more than 2 days before providing a semen sample for DFI testing. This timeframe is required to optimize the quality of the sample and provide a more accurate reflection of sperm DNA integrity.

 STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Remove the red lid off the Plastic Cup so that it will be easy to use at the time of ejaculation. You will use this container to collect all sperm during ejaculation. This sample will be used for all semen-requiring tests, including FERTILYSIS male microbiome testing and Semen FISH chromosomal analysis testing (if included in your order).
2. After ejaculation in the Plastic Cup, close the lid and leave it at room temperature for about 20 min to 40 min until the semen liquefies (see below). Following ejaculation, semen normally thickens followed by gradual liquefaction. The liquefaction process usually takes between 20 to 40 min to complete but it can vary. You will know that the liquefaction process is complete when after a slight stirring of the container you can see the semen sample moving freely at the bottom of the container. If after 40 min liquefaction still hasn’t taken place, you will proceed to the next step anyway.
3. Following semen liquefaction, take out the included plastic pipette from its wrapping and use it transfer approximately 0,5 ml of semen (marked on the pipette) from the Plastic Cup into the Sample Vial. To use the pipette, press the “bulb” of the pipette and insert it into the Plastic Cup with the collected semen sample. Then, slowly release pressure off the pipette. When 0,5 ml of semen has been sucked into the pipette, without releasing the head of the pipette, remove it from the Plastic Cup and place the semen containing pipette into the Sample Vial. Gently press the head of the pipette again to slowly release its contents into the vial. See video on how to. use Pasteur pipette here. Keep the pippete and use it on the next step.
4. Add the DFI Sample Preservative. Carefully unscrew the small plastic tube with the DFI Sample Preservative and pour all its content into the semen-containing Sample Vial. Using the pasteur pippete, thoroughly mix the semen sample with the preservative by gently pippeting up and down a few times. Take care to safely tighten the lid, then insert the Sample Vial into the Outer Protective Tube. (You can discard the Plastic Cup with the remaining semen sample unless it is to be used for other test included in your order)
5. Fill in all the required information. Fill in your personal information on both the Sample Vial and Outer Protective Tube.
6. Place the sample in the refrigerator. Preferably store the sample in the refrigerator until shipping. The sample ships at ambient temperature conditions, no ice- packs are required.
7. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the sample container (the Sample Vial in its Outer Protective Tube) in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

 TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Sperm DNA Fragmentation Analysis (DFI) test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

Arrange for a healthcare professional to draw the peripheral blood samples for you, preferably on a Monday*. A certified healthcare professional (e.g., nurse, lab technician or physician) can perform this simple blood collection using our enclosed vials according to the instructions below, in a licensed medical facility in your area. If needed, we will provide you with a blood sample requisition letter to use with your local GP, laboratory, or clinic. 

Returning the samples to our laboratory for analysis:

1) If your Fertilysis Box includes a return label:
You should have also received an email from DHL regarding this label. (Please read the instructions in that email carefully — you do not need to reprint the labels).

In this case, you have two options for returning the samples:

Option A: Drop-off at a DHL Service Point
Use the return label provided inside the box and drop the parcel off at an official DHL shop.
Important: If your box contains peripheral blood samples, please avoid dropping it off at a third-party DHL partner location, as this may cause additional transit delays.

Option B: Schedule a pick-up from your location
You can either:

• Contact your local DHL office using the tracking number on the return label, or

• Click the green button in the email you received from DHL to arrange the pick-up online.

Please note: We recommend scheduling the pick-up from the same address that is written on the return label.

2) If your Fertilysis Box does not include a return label:

Request a pick-up through our website

• Log in (or register) on our website at least 3–4 days before your desired pick-up date.

• Click on "REQUEST PICK-UP."

• Enter the unique 10-digit Box ID, found on the biohazard bag inside your box.

• Complete the form with the required sample and patient information, the pick-up address, and your preferred date.

• After submitting your request, you will receive a confirmation email from DHL with new return labels attached.

Please note: This process is not automated and may take over 24 hours, as it requires manual handling by DHL.

During sample collection, follow the test-specific instructions in the relevant section below:

• On the date of sample pick-up or drop-off, place the vials in the clear "biohazard" plastic bag and seal it. Then, place the bag in your Fertiysis Box, including any Styrofoam or other type of space filler in order to stop the bag from rolling around in the box during transport. Finally, stick the "EXEMPT HUMAN SPECIMEN" sticker on the outside top of the box, unless it’s already attached to the biohazard bag with your sample tubes and vials.

• You don't need to write any address or information on the box. Just place it inside the DHL flyer bag, seal it and hand it over to the DHL driver or drop it off together with the printed-out shipping documentation you received in your e-mail. Your box will be sent to our laboratories for processing, and you will receive your results by e-mail. Turnaround time differs for each test but is usually less than 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer.

* In order to avoid the weekend which could extend shipping time considerably, you should arrange sample collection and pick-up to take place on a Monday if possible, and not later during the week.

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vial x1 (“Lavender vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vial should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

• 1x Lavender vacutainer (~2ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the label of the Lavender vacutainer. Store the vial at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The sample is transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the sample for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the Lavender vacutainer in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Genetic Thrombophilia screening test is usually 10 business days, unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

Arrange for a healthcare professional to draw the peripheral blood samples for you, preferably on a Monday*. A certified healthcare professional (e.g., nurse, lab technician or physician) can perform this simple blood collection using our enclosed vials according to the instructions below, in a licensed medical facility in your area. If needed, we will provide you with a blood sample requisition letter to use with your local GP, laboratory, or clinic. 

Returning the samples to our laboratory for analysis:

1) If your Fertilysis Box includes a return label:
You should have also received an email from DHL regarding this label. (Please read the instructions in that email carefully — you do not need to reprint the labels).

In this case, you have two options for returning the samples:

Option A: Drop-off at a DHL Service Point
Use the return label provided inside the box and drop the parcel off at an official DHL shop.
Important: If your box contains peripheral blood samples, please avoid dropping it off at a third-party DHL partner location, as this may cause additional transit delays.

Option B: Schedule a pick-up from your location
You can either:

• Contact your local DHL office using the tracking number on the return label, or

• Click the green button in the email you received from DHL to arrange the pick-up online.

Please note: We recommend scheduling the pick-up from the same address that is written on the return label.

2) If your Fertilysis Box does not include a return label:

Request a pick-up through our website

• Log in (or register) on our website at least 3–4 days before your desired pick-up date.

• Click on "REQUEST PICK-UP."

• Enter the unique 10-digit Box ID, found on the biohazard bag inside your box.

• Complete the form with the required sample and patient information, the pick-up address, and your preferred date.

• After submitting your request, you will receive a confirmation email from DHL with new return labels attached.

Please note: This process is not automated and may take over 24 hours, as it requires manual handling by DHL.

During sample collection, follow the test-specific instructions in the relevant section below:

• On the date of sample pick-up or drop-off, place the vials in the clear "biohazard" plastic bag and seal it. Then, place the bag in your Fertiysis Box, including any Styrofoam or other type of space filler in order to stop the bag from rolling around in the box during transport. Finally, stick the "EXEMPT HUMAN SPECIMEN" sticker on the outside top of the box, unless it’s already attached to the biohazard bag with your sample tubes and vials.

• You don't need to write any address or information on the box. Just place it inside the DHL flyer bag, seal it and hand it over to the DHL driver or drop it off together with the printed-out shipping documentation you received in your e-mail. Your box will be sent to our laboratories for processing, and you will receive your results by e-mail. Turnaround time differs for each test but is usually less than 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer.

* In order to avoid the weekend which could extend shipping time considerably, you should arrange sample collection and pick-up to take place on a Monday if possible, and not later during the week.

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Green Peripheral Blood/Sodium heparin collection vials x2 (“Green Vacutainers”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vials should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

Female Partner:

• 1x Green Vacutainer (~2ml of sample)

Male Partner:

• 1x Green Vacutainer (~2ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the labels of the Green Vacutainers. Store the vials in the rfrigerator. The samples are transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place all Green Vacutainers in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Peripheral blood karyotyping test is usually within 30 business days (because of the nature of this test, for Karyotyping, a significantly extended turnaround time is unfortunately required) unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Outer protective gray colored tube x1 (“Outer Protective Tube”)
• Inner clear sample vial x1 (“Sample Vial”)
• Sperm FISH Sample Preservative small tube x1 (“Sample Preservative”)
• Red-lid Plastic Cup x1 (“Plastic Cup”)
• Pipette x1

BEFORE SAMPLE COLLECTION:

• Good hand and genital hygiene is recommended.
• Sample collection should take place by masturbation.
• The complete semen ejaculate must be collected.
• Use of a condom for semen specimen collection is not allowed unless specifically designed for this purpose

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Remove the red lid off the Plastic Cup so that it will be easy to use at the time of ejaculation. You will use this container to collect all sperm during ejaculation. In addition to this test, if you have also ordered other sperm tests such as for example DNA Fragmentation (DFI) testing, this sample can be used for all semen-requiring tests, by using the included pipette to divide the collected semen sample between tests as per each test’s individual instructions.
2. After ejaculation in the Plastic Cup, close the lid and leave it at room temperature for about 20 min to 40 min until the semen liquefies (see below). Following ejaculation, semen normally thickens followed by gradual liquefaction. The liquefaction process usually takes between 20 to 40 min to complete but it can vary. You will know that the liquefaction process is complete when after a slight stirring of the container you can see the semen sample moving freely at the bottom of the container. If after 40 min liquefaction still hasn’t taken place, you will proceed to the next step anyway.
3. Following semen liquefaction, take out the included plastic pipette from its wrapping and use it transfer the semen sample (excluding approximately 0,5 ml of semen to be used with DFI testing in case you have also ordered that one) from the Plastic Cup into the Sample Vial. To use the pipette, press the “bulb” of the pipette and insert it into the Plastic Cup with the collected semen sample. Then, slowly release pressure off the pipette. When the required quantity of sample has been sucked into the pipette, without releasing the head of the pipette, remove it from the Plastic Cup and place the semen containing pipette into the Sample Vial. Gently press the head of the pipette again to slowly release its contents into the vial. See video on how to use Pasteur pipette here
4. Add the Sample Preservative*. Carefully unscrew the small plastic tube with the Sample Preservative and pour all its content into the semen-containing Sample Vial (if you have also ordered DNA Fragmentation (DFI) testing please make sure to use the FISH Sample Preservative and not getting it confused with the DFI Sample Preservative. Give it a gentle stir to mix the sample with the preservative, take care to safely tighten the lid, then insert the Sample Vial into the Outer Protective Tube. (You can discard the Plastic Cup)
5. Fill in all the required information. Fill in your personal information on both the Sample Vial and Outer Protective Tube.
6. Place the sample in the refrigerator. Preferably store the sample in the refrigerator until shipping. The sample ships at ambient temperature conditions, no ice- packs are required.
7. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the samples for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis box” instructions on the top of the page, place the sample container (the Sample Vial in its Outer Protective Tube) in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the FERTILYSIS Male Microbiome: Basic test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].

Arrange for a healthcare professional to draw the peripheral blood samples for you, preferably on a Monday*. A certified healthcare professional (e.g., nurse, lab technician or physician) can perform this simple blood collection using our enclosed vials according to the instructions below, in a licensed medical facility in your area. If needed, we will provide you with a blood sample requisition letter to use with your local GP, laboratory, or clinic. 

Returning the samples to our laboratory for analysis:

1) If your Fertilysis Box includes a return label:
You should have also received an email from DHL regarding this label. (Please read the instructions in that email carefully — you do not need to reprint the labels).

In this case, you have two options for returning the samples:

Option A: Drop-off at a DHL Service Point
Use the return label provided inside the box and drop the parcel off at an official DHL shop.
Important: If your box contains peripheral blood samples, please avoid dropping it off at a third-party DHL partner location, as this may cause additional transit delays.

Option B: Schedule a pick-up from your location
You can either:

• Contact your local DHL office using the tracking number on the return label, or

• Click the green button in the email you received from DHL to arrange the pick-up online.

Please note: We recommend scheduling the pick-up from the same address that is written on the return label.

2) If your Fertilysis Box does not include a return label:

Request a pick-up through our website

• Log in (or register) on our website at least 3–4 days before your desired pick-up date.

• Click on "REQUEST PICK-UP."

• Enter the unique 10-digit Box ID, found on the biohazard bag inside your box.

• Complete the form with the required sample and patient information, the pick-up address, and your preferred date.

• After submitting your request, you will receive a confirmation email from DHL with new return labels attached.

Please note: This process is not automated and may take over 24 hours, as it requires manual handling by DHL.

During sample collection, follow the test-specific instructions in the relevant section below:

• On the date of sample pick-up or drop-off, place the vials in the clear "biohazard" plastic bag and seal it. Then, place the bag in your Fertiysis Box, including any Styrofoam or other type of space filler in order to stop the bag from rolling around in the box during transport. Finally, stick the "EXEMPT HUMAN SPECIMEN" sticker on the outside top of the box, unless it’s already attached to the biohazard bag with your sample tubes and vials.

• You don't need to write any address or information on the box. Just place it inside the DHL flyer bag, seal it and hand it over to the DHL driver or drop it off together with the printed-out shipping documentation you received in your e-mail. Your box will be sent to our laboratories for processing, and you will receive your results by e-mail. Turnaround time differs for each test but is usually less than 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer.

* In order to avoid the weekend which could extend shipping time considerably, you should arrange sample collection and pick-up to take place on a Monday if possible, and not later during the week.

BOX CONTENTS

• Biohazard plastic bag x1
• DHL plastic bag x1
• Lavender Peripheral Blood/EDTA collection vial x1 (“Lavender vacutainer”)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

On the day of blood sample collection…

1. Blood sample collection. On the day of sample collection, the following vial should be filled with peripheral blood and handed over to you for timely shipping:

• 1x Lavender vacutainer (~2ml of sample)

1. Write your information and store the samples until shipping. Fill in your information on the label of the Lavender vacutainer. Store the vial at room temperature and away from sunlight until shipping (do not refrigerate). The sample is transported at ambient temperature conditions - no icepacks are required during transit.
2. Refer to the Fertilysis Box instructions. Prepare the sample for shipping. After reading carefully the “How to use your Fertilysis Box” instructions, place the Lavender vacutainer in the biohazard plastic bag and seal it. Then place the bag in our Fertilysis Box and place the box into the DHL plastic bag.

TEST RESULTS:

Your results will be sent to your designed e-mail address as soon as they are ready. Our typical turnaround time for the Telomere Length test is usually within 10 business days unless there is an unforeseen delay in which case it might take a little longer. For further information please contact us at [email protected].