From what I have heard from friends who are going through some very trying fertility issues, there's no pain involved. A sample is gathered after love making. My impression was that something like a condom was used, but that it allowed some semen escape while retaining some.
But I have to admit, I didn't ask any clarifying questions. ;)
As to the other issue, hubby and I have asked about that as well, and I was left with the impression that it's a no-no as well.
"A sample is gathered after love making"
ohhh! ok. that's much better than what I was thinking.
I was imagining some awful procedure involving a long needle sticking in places where no one wants a needle.
"As to the other issue, hubby and I have asked about that as well, and I was left with the impression that it's a no-no as well."
it isn't like people who do this are trying to contracept - they're probably even conceiving during such activities.
Sometimes I think people get too technical with this teaching.
But then again - my opinion doesn't really matter! :)