Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you wondered if there was semen present on clothing or an object, but had no way to confirm it?
The question of semen detection can be crucial in certain circumstances, fortunately, science has evolved to provide accurate and indisputable answers to this delicate question.
In this blog article, you will discover how laboratories can detect the presence of sperm in multiple steps with 100% certainty and reliability of results.
The Search for Semen in 3 Steps
The test begins with a crucial step: screening for acid phosphatase. This enzyme, also known as prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP), is produced exclusively in the male prostate. If this initial step yields a positive result, indicating the possible presence of semen, the laboratory will then proceed to the next step.
The second step, which only occurs in the case of a positive result from the previous step, is the test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA). PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and it is present in significant quantities in adult male semen.
Finally, the third step involves advanced microscopic analysis through staining. This process allows for precise visual identification of spermatozoa. The chemicals used color different parts of the sperm, such as the head and tail, in different colors, creating a unique pattern of green and red hues.
It is important to note that the semen detection test can identify the presence of spermatozoa, but it cannot assess their quantity, mobility, or quality.
Conducting a Home Semen Detection Test: The Kit-Free Solution
You might be wondering if it's possible to perform a semen detection test from your home without using a genetic kit.
The answer is yes, and this can be achieved through a laboratory-based approach that can detect from any substrate. All that's required is the collection of your potential sample, whether it's a condom, underwear, bed sheets, or any object where you suspect the presence of semen.
The process is straightforward. Once you decide to conduct the test, clear instructions on collecting and sending your sample will be provided by the laboratory. You can gather the suspicious item and ship it directly to the lab. The professional team will analyze your sample within about ten days and precisely determine the presence or absence of semen.
Which samples are used to detect semen?
For a laboratory semen detection test, various types of samples containing traces of semen can be used. Here are some commonly used sample types:
Clothing: Underwear, shorts, pants, swimsuits, and other clothing items may contain traces of semen if there has been contact.
Bed sheets and bedding: Sheets, pillowcases, blankets, or any other bedding may undergo testing if suspected of containing traces of semen. (Please cut out or mark the suspected area for detection.)
Condoms: Used condoms can be analyzed to detect the presence of semen.
Tissues or paper towels: If tissues or paper towels have come into contact with semen, they can be used as samples.
Personal items: Personal items such as sex toys, sponges, or other items that may come into contact with semen can also be submitted for testing.
Tissues or biological samples: If you have biological samples, such as body tissues, discharges, or secretions, they can be analyzed to detect the presence of semen.
Other substrates: In general, any object or material that may come into contact with semen can be submitted for testing. This may include unexpected items in specific circumstances.
It is crucial to handle these samples with care to preserve potential evidence of semen.
Please do not store and send your samples in a plastic box or bag. Instead, the laboratory recommends using paper or cardboard support.
Possibility of Other Tests
"Following the results of the semen detection test, it's important to note that there is an option for those who wish to delve deeper into their investigation: the DNA Infidelity Test.
It's crucial to understand that the DNA Infidelity Test is distinct from the Semen Detection Test, as its purpose differs. While the semen detection test aims to identify the presence of semen, the DNA infidelity test focuses on DNA detection.
The DNA Infidelity Test involves comparing the DNA from the sample you sent us for the semen detection test with the DNA from another sample you provided, typically referred to as a reference sample.
This comparison determines whether the DNA from both samples belongs to the same person or not.
It's important to note that if you decide to proceed with an infidelity test after a semen detection test using the already analyzed sample, this will require additional consent and the submission of a saliva sample from the reference participant.
Please consider the following points:
Semen samples do not always contain enough DNA to enable an infidelity test, especially if the sample has already been exposed to the chemicals used in the semen detection test. Before using the same sample in an infidelity test, the laboratory conducts a check to ensure the presence of usable DNA for analysis.
Results from a semen detection test have no legal validity.
It should be noted that the stained item will be damaged during the testing process and is generally not returned."