This is done by a molecular "screening" method (high performance liquid chromatography under denaturing conditions (D-HPLC) followed by sequencing of the exons of interest, allowing to detect nearly 95% of mutations in this gene, and even discover new mutations. After this molecular screening step, if variants of the CFTR gene are detected, the geneticist will use computer databases to distinguish whether this nucleotide variant corresponds to a polymorphism of the CFTR gene (without consequence on the function of the CFTR protein) or to a real mutation. Semen analysis A common route to diagnosis for hypospermia that may be requested for is a semen analysis. To obtain the most fresh specimen collection, a semen sample is obtained through the process of masturbation in the setting of a laboratory. An abstinence period of 3–5 days is recommended prior to collection of samples. If a semen analysis cannot be completed, an alternative route to collecting a semen is through coitus interruptus into a bottle. Normally, a typical specimen displays coagulation after ejaculation due to the presence of enzymes within the seminal vesicle, followed by liquification in approximately 30 minutes. Urine collection Furthermore, when the semen volume is low, less than 1 ml, a urine specimen should be collected immediately after masturbation to search for sperm in the urine. Two days before the urine sample is collected, one is required to drink an alkalinized water to allow the sperm cells to survive. After this preliminary preparation step, urine collection is done in a fractional way: the first milliliters of urine are collected and analyzed in isolation through centrifugation and examination under a microscope. The presence of substantial sperm in the post-ejaculatory urine specimen confirms the diagnosis of partial retrograde ejaculation, a dysfunction of the ejaculatory reflex and a known cause of hypospermia. Unfortunately, even after thorough etiological assessments, an assessor many come to the conclusion of no known etiological cause to explain one's diagnosis of hypospermia. The significance of these idiopathic hypospermia cases are currently unknown and requires more research in the future. Treatment Although there are no existing medications on the market for the treatment of hypospermia, some medications and herbal medications have off label uses which can aid in the treatment of this condition and should be considered as soon as possible. According to a review, the use of maca has shown to improve semen volume through an unclear mechanism. In addition,