Sperm are also stored in the epididymis before they make their way up a long open tube called the vas deferens. The tip of the vas deferens connects with the ejaculatory ducts where it combines with the rest of the fluid that makes the semen or "ejaculate. These pea-sized glands produce what is called the pre-ejaculate fluid, the small amount of fluid that is released before ejaculation. This fluid lubricates the urethra and neutralizes any acidity, allowing the sperm to travel easily.
All of these unique components play a role. For example, zinc is believed to be an antibacterial factor. Interestingly, some experts believe that this may contribute to the reason why urinary tract infections are not as common in men compared to women. The prostate gland also releases enzymes that work to liquefy semen about 15 to 30 minutes after ejaculation. This liquefying process allows the sperm to be slowly released.
The sperm cells can then enter the cervix and travel upstream in the female reproductive system in an orderly fashion, with the ultimate goal of finding an egg to fertilize. Fructose nourishes the sperm cells, providing them with energy. Prostaglandins help trigger the contraction of vaginal muscles in order to propel the sperm up the vaginal canal and through the cervix.
Clotting factors are also present in the fluid secreted by the seminal vesicles. This makes the semen clump together, forming a jelly-like consistency right after ejaculation. The purpose of the clotting process is to hold the sperm in place until it can be slowly released during the liquefying process controlled by enzymes secreted by the prostate gland.
Semen often has a chlorine-like smell and tastes slightly sweet due to its high content of fructose. That being said, the taste of semen tends to change slightly from person to person. If your semen is foul-smelling, see your healthcare provider as this is often a sign of infection.
The volume of semen that is released during ejaculation varies among research studies, although a review study in the Journal of Andrology suggests that the average volume is around 3. Normal semen may have an off-white or slightly yellow tint. If your semen has a red or brown appearance, it can be a sign of blood. While this may seem alarming to you, in most instances, blood in your semen called hematospermia is usually benign.
The most common reason for it is from a prostate biopsy, but it can also be due to a variety of other conditions that affect the organs of the male reproductive tract like an infection.
Rarely, blood in the semen is a sign of cancer. The good news is that hematospermia generally resolves on its own. However, it's important to get it checked out by your healthcare provider. He will likely ask you questions, perform an examination especially of the scrotum and prostate gland , and do a.
Semen with a pronounced yellow or green color may indicate an infection like the sexually transmitted infection STI gonorrhea. If your semen is discolored due to a gonorrhea infection it may also have a foul smell , treatment with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider will be necessary. Your semen is not as simple as you may have thought.
It has lots of components to it, all of which play a role in enhancing reproduction—your sperm reaching an ovulated egg. However, it's important to note that the fluid part is not absolutely critical for fertilization, as evidenced by intracytoplasmic sperm injection in which a single sperm is injected into an egg. Of course, if you have any questions or concerns about your semen, please contact your healthcare provider — and don't be embarrassed, this is what they are trained to do.
Diet can actually impact sperm quality and therefore fertility. Studies have shown that diets high in processed meats, trans fat, soy, high-fat dairy, and foods containing pesticides lower sperm quality, including its shape, quantity, and motility.
The good news is that diets high in fish, fruits and vegetables, and walnuts are shown to increase sperm quality. Changes in taste can be another sign of an underlying medical condition. The smell of semen can change if it mixes with other substances, such as urine or sweat. It can also smell differently when it dries. Dried semen tends to have a stronger, more noticeable smell. The pH of semen may affect how it smells, and if the pH changes, it can affect the smell. The prostate also adds an acidic fluid to the semen, which lowers its pH.
Changes in prostate function may affect both the pH and odor of semen. The vagina is also slightly acidic. When semen combines with vaginal fluids, the smell can also change. There is currently no good quality research linking changes in diet to lasting changes in the way semen tastes or smells. People who are concerned about the smell of their semen should avoid strong-smelling foods, such as fish.
They should also avoid foods that change the smell or color of other bodily fluids, such as asparagus. Some people may even notice the smell changing over time or with shifts in diet, exercise, rest, and other lifestyle factors. It is useful to pay attention to the smell of semen. A study found that semen pH influences sperm health, which can affect fertility. Lasting changes to the smell of semen can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
For example, a strong foul or fishy smell can be a sign of infection or a sexually transmitted condition. See a doctor if these changes occur. Some things can change the smell of semen, such as when it mixes with urine. However, diet cannot change the smell of semen in any lasting way. Ejaculating multiple times per day, living with certain medical conditions, and having nutritional deficiencies can all cause watery semen.
A sperm count is part of a larger test called semen analysis. Learn about…. Sweat and urine also contain numerous other substances that can react with the alkaline substances in semen. Chloride, potassium, and magnesium can all alter its scent.
What you eat and drink contains chemicals, nutrients, and other substances that can mix with your semen contents. Some are thought to make your semen smell and taste sweeter, including:.
You can always add in more fruits and spices to try to keep things balanced. Your diet, lifestyle, and hygiene can all affect semen smell. To help maintain its typical alkaline smell:. Your doctor can determine the underlying cause and advise you on any next steps.
Talking about sex can be awkward. But it's also a key adult skill. We asked sex and relationship experts for the best ways to talk about sex. This chart can help you find the right fit for…. How long can sperm live outside the body? Which sperm and pregnancy myths are true and which are false? Many factors, including environment, your…. Practicing safe sex is crucial to the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.
Learn more. How old do you have to be to get a vasectomy?
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