The survival of sperm is surrounded by many myths and misconceptions. From hot baths to electromagnetic radiation, many factors can affect their lifespan. In this article, we clarify the facts and provide you with well-founded information on how long sperm survive in different environments and what you can do to promote sperm health.
What is the Difference Between Sperm and Semen?
Sperm make up less than one percent of ejaculate, which primarily consists of seminal fluid. This fluid is a mixture of various glandular secretions and seminal plasma and is essential for their survival.
The anatomical structure of a sperm cell is fascinating: at just 0.05 millimeters in size, they are only visible under a microscope. A sperm resembles a tadpole, consisting of an oval head, a short neck, a midsection, and a long tail that is crucial for its motility.
Many people confuse sperm with the white, sticky substance that is ejaculated during orgasm. This substance is actually semen, which contains sperm.
How Long Do Sperm Survive in the Testicles?
The scrotum provides the ideal climate for sperm production at around 35 degrees Celsius. Sperm maturation takes about ten weeks. After their development, they can survive in the epididymis for up to a month.
Outside the body, however, sperm are exposed to dangers: hot bathwater or intense exercise can increase the temperature of the testicles, while cold inhibits the motility of the sperm cells.
The scrotum is prepared for this: a layer of muscle in the skin regulates blood flow, contracting in cold and relaxing in heat to regulate temperature.
How Long Do Sperm Survive in the Female Body?
Sperm can survive in the uterus and fallopian tubes for up to five days. However, the journey to get there is not easy. On non-fertile days, the acidic environment of the vagina is hostile to sperm, causing them to die within minutes.
Just before ovulation, the cervix becomes more permeable, but only about ten percent of sperm make it to the uterus. Cervical mucus selects only the healthiest sperm to advance.
If a sperm reaches the egg, cell division begins. After about four to five days, the blastocyst implants in the uterus, leading to successful fertilization.
How Long Do Sperm Survive in Water?
Sperm survive only briefly in water as they lose their protective seminal fluid. Even at body temperature, sperm mix with water and die within seconds to minutes.
In swimming pools with chlorine or household waters with soap residues, sperm die even faster. The chemicals are toxic to sperm and kill them almost immediately.
Warm bathwater also kills sperm very quickly. Tests have shown that they die within seconds when in contact with hot water.
How Long Do Sperm Survive in Air?
Outside the body, sperm survive only a few minutes to a maximum of 24 hours in the air. Without the protective seminal fluid, sperm dry out quickly. Air-dried sperm are sometimes used in laboratories for artificial insemination.
How Long Do Sperm Survive in the Mouth?
There are no concrete studies on the survival time of sperm in the mouth. Semen is easier to detect in saliva samples than in oral cavity swabs. The question of whether pregnancy can occur through oral sex remains unresolved.
How Long Do Sperm Survive on the Skin?
Sperm survive only a few minutes on the skin as they dry out quickly. For fertilization to occur, they would have to be directly introduced into the vagina, making the likelihood of pregnancy much lower than with intercourse.
The Influence of Ambient Temperature on Sperm Survival
Ambient temperature significantly affects sperm viability and quality. Studies have shown that sperm quickly lose motility and viability at body temperature (37°C). In contrast, sperm remain viable at 4°C, but lose their motility due to the so-called thermal shock. The optimal temperature for storing sperm to maintain their motility is around 20°C. At this temperature, there is minimal deterioration in motility over 12 hours, making it the best choice for short-term storage and transport. This underscores the need to keep sperm samples at room temperature during transport and storage to ensure the best possible quality.
What Can Men Do to Improve Their Sperm?
Men can take several measures to improve the quality of their sperm:
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can positively influence sperm production and quality. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can be particularly helpful.
- Regular Exercise: Exercise and physical activity can improve overall health and have a positive impact on sperm quality. Men who exercise regularly often have a higher sperm count and better sperm motility.
- Avoid Harmful Substances: Alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs can impair sperm quality. Men who want to improve their fertility should avoid these substances.
- Avoid Heat: Excessive heat can impair sperm production and quality. Men should avoid hot baths, saunas, and tight clothing in the genital area to ensure the optimal temperature for sperm production.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can negatively affect sperm quality. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve fertility.
The Impact of Smartphones and Laptops on Sperm Quality
Modern technology offers benefits but also potential risks. Frequent use of smartphones and laptops near the genital area can negatively affect sperm production. Electromagnetic radiation and the heat generated by the devices can reduce sperm count and quality. It is advisable not to use electronic devices directly on the lap and to take regular breaks.
The Impact of Environmental Toxins and Chemicals on Sperm
Environmental toxins and chemicals can significantly impair sperm quality. Pesticides, heavy metals, and other toxic substances disrupt hormonal balance and can lead to reduced sperm production and genetic damage to sperm. Studies have shown that men who are regularly exposed to pesticides have a lower sperm count and poorer sperm motility. To minimize the negative effects, it is advisable to avoid contact with these substances and opt for organic products. Consuming organic foods and avoiding heavily polluted areas can help protect sperm health.
Sperm Morphology: Influence and Importance
Sperm morphology refers to their shape and structure and is crucial for their ability to fertilize an egg. Ideally, sperm should have an oval head shape, a long tail, and an intact acrosome cap. Abnormal shapes, such as rounded heads or shortened tails, may indicate problems with sperm maturation or production.
A high number of abnormal sperm can affect fertility. A semen analysis that evaluates sperm morphology is an important part of fertility assessments for men with infertility issues. For problems with morphology, various treatment options can be considered, including lifestyle changes, medical therapies, or assisted reproductive technologies.
Morphology is hard to influence, and abnormalities can significantly contribute to male infertility.
Conclusion
The lifespan of sperm depends on a variety of factors, including ambient temperature, location, and even a man's lifestyle. While sperm can survive for several days within the female body, they are only viable for a few minutes in air or water. Through a conscious lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful substances, men can significantly improve the quality and quantity of their sperm.