Lecture on Semen: Fluid, Production, Storage & Composition

Overview

Semen: A thick, sticky, whitish-gray fluid of the male reproductive system containing sperm.
Other names: Seminal fluid, ejaculate, cum.
Functions to transport sperm, nourish, and protect sperm during fertilization.

Primary Role: Transports sperm into female reproductive system for fertilization.
Released after orgasm (ejaculation) or can occur without orgasm (anorgasmia).

Production:
- Produced by seminal vesicles and prostate gland.
- Composition:
  - 65-75% seminal vesicle fluid
  - 25-30% prostate fluid
  - 1-5% sperm
Storage:
- Sperm stored in epididymis until maturation.
- Mixes with fluid from seminal vesicles and prostate to form semen.
Components:
- Main: Water, mucus, plasma.
- Nutrients: Calcium, citrate, fructose, glucose, lactic acid, magnesium, potassium, zinc.

Common Conditions:
- STIs: Transmittable via semen (HPV, herpes simplex, gonorrhea, HIV).
- Pyospermia: Increased white blood cells in semen, often due to infection or inflammation.
- Retrograde Ejaculation: Semen enters bladder instead of exiting through penis.
- Semen Allergy: Rare allergic reaction to semen proteins.
Symptoms:
- Yellow semen, blood in semen (hematospermia), low ejaculate volume.
Tests: Semen analysis to measure semen volume, sperm health, and detect inflammation.

Improve semen quality by:
- Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, eating fruits and veggies.
- Maintaining healthy weight, increasing physical activity.
- Using protection during sexual intercourse to prevent STIs.
Consult Healthcare Provider: Before lifestyle changes.

Semen vs Sperm: Semen includes sperm and other fluids; sperm is a component of semen.
Sperm Count: Ranges from 15 million to over 200 million per ml.
Ejaculation Age: No specific age for cessation; varies individually.
Precum: Not semen, but can contain sperm if prior ejaculation occurred without urination.

Important to consult healthcare providers for changes in semen or fertility issues.
Cleveland Clinic offers expert care for urinary and reproductive health issues.

Reminder: These notes are for educational purposes and should be further discussed with a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.