Semen analysis is the central part of andrology laboratory diagnosis. Carrying out the examination accurately while minimizing confounding factors is a prerequisite for attaining reliable results. Analyses need to be performed using standardized techniques which are regularly subjected to continuous internal and external quality control. QuaDeGA offers such a programme for external quality control.
The German Federal Medical Board has recently included quality assurance of the ejaculate in its Guidelines for Performing Laboratory Analyses (RiLiBÄK) and has recognized QuaDeGA as a Reference Institution. As of January 1, 2011 every laboratory in Germany carrying out analyses of the ejaculate is required to participate in an external quality control programme. After successful completion of the quality control programme, QuaDeGA will issue the required certificate.