Received April 27, 2025
Accepted February 20, 2026

Objective: The study's objectives were twofold: to determine if a short abstinence time reduces the presence of ROS (reactive oxygen species) in semen using an NBT (nitroblue tetrazolium)-based test commercially named CANros and improves sperm quality compared to a longer abstinence time, and to correlate this test with a sperm DNA fragmentation test (commercially named CANfrag) to use it as a cheaper alternative in fertility treatments. Methodology: In this prospective interventional crossover study, 30 patients undergoing infertility treatment provided two semen samples: one after standard abstinence (2–7 days; control condition) and one after short abstinence (4 hours; intervention). Semen analyses included volume, total sperm count, motility, and liquefaction time. ROS levels were assessed using the CANros test, and results were correlated with DFI via the CANfrag test. Cost-benefit analysis was also conducted for the two tests. Results: There was no significant difference in the liquefaction time between the two samples. However, samples after 2–7 days of abstinence showed higher volume and total sperm count, though the 4-hour samples exhibited better motility. The CANros test was normal in 33.33% of 4-hour samples compared to 16.66% in the 2–7 day samples, though it was not statistically significant. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between CANros and DFI results (r = 0.41, p = 0.0242), with the CANros test being more cost-effective. Conclusion: Short abstinence may enhance semen quality by improving motility and reducing oxidative stress.