Sperm is a male reproductive cell produced in the testes of males. After ejaculation, it moves and swims through the female reproductive system to the egg (female reproductive cell) to fertilize it.     

Semen is the medium that carries sperm millions of sperm cells. It nourishes the sperm and supplies them with energy for their health and motility. A decrease in the sperm volume in the semen can give rise to fertility issues in males.   

Certain types of foods can help boost the sperm production and help increase the sperm count. We will explore What foods produce sperm fast in this blog.  

Foods that boost the sperm count

Spinach   

Leafy greens like spinach are a rich source of essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, zinc, and several vitamins. Magnesium in spinach naturally boosts the levels of testosterone hormone in the body.   

Testosterone is needed for sperm production. A rise in the levels of testosterone through spinach can improve sperm health.

The mineral content of spinach also helps lower the testicular oxidative stress, which happens because of the attack of free radicals.     

Free radicals are hyperactive molecules that contribute to the damage of healthy cells and impact the function of organs negatively.     

However, spinach alleviates oxidative stress and helps maintain healthy levels of testosterone in the body, so it is essential to include spinach as a part of your diet frequently.

Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits such as such as oranges, grapefruit, lime, and lemon are loaded with powerful antioxidants such as Vitamin C. These antioxidants have a crucial role as they help boost overall health and well-being.

Besides, they also increase fertility in males. The rich vitamin C content in citrus fruits boosts sperm count and motility. It prevents damage to the cells and protects their function against oxidative stress.

Dark chocolate

As per various studies, dark chocolate offers a range of health benefits due to its rich content of antioxidants, minerals, and other bioactive compounds. It might also help improve sperm count and volume.

However, the effects of the antioxidant content of dark chocolate on sperm count are likely to be influenced by several factors, including the composition of the chocolate, the amount consumed, individual differences in response, and overall lifestyle and dietary habits.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are considered the best fruit for boosting the fertility in males. It contains potent antioxidant compounds that may help increase the levels of testosterone hormone in the body.

Testosterone stimulates the production of sperm cells in the testes. Besides, its antioxidant content can prevent the damage caused by the free radicals.  

Antioxidants found in pomegranate negate the attack of free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. By negating free radicals, it protects you against testicular inflammation and boosts the levels of testosterone.

Lentils      

Lentils are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and folate. The fibers and folate content in lentils can be beneficial in maintaining a healthy balance of hormones in the body.

Lentils have high levels of spermidine, which may play a role in male fertility. A study has revealed that men with high levels of spermidine are fertile, while those with low levels of spermidine are less fertile.         

Garlic    

According to some sources, garlic contains a compound, known as allicin, which is my have properties that can boost the flow of blood to male sexual organs. This can positively influence sperm production, sperm counts, and semen volume.     

Moreover, the potent antioxidant contents in garlic help fight off the damaging impact of free radicals present in the human body. It might protect against harmful cellular damage.      

Bananas   

Bananas are a great option for stimulating sperm production and increasing sperm count. Its rich nutrient content supports sperm health.

The magnesium vitamin C and vitamin B1 content in bananas improve the motility of sperm, which is the ability to swim to the egg (ovum). 

It also contains bromelain at high levels. Bromelain is an enzyme that boosts sperm health and sex drive or libido in men.  

Tomatoes  

Tomatoes are an abundant source of lycopene, which is an antioxidant that gives red color to the tomatoes. Lycopene aids in the process of sperm production.

Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, which enhances sperm concentration and increases sperm motility. The rich nutrient content in tomatoes makes them suitable for reproductive health.   

The lowdown

By including these foods in your daily diet, you can boost your sperm production and hence, sperm count. It is even better if you consult a healthcare expert or a nutritionist or dietician who can guide you on this.  

Semen is a complex substance that gets released by the male reproduction organ. It is a combination of fluids that are secreted by the several glands of the male reproduction system.

The semen is composed of various essential nutrients and also contains sperm cells. It is made of mostly water, plasma, and mucus, a lubricating substance.  

What is in semen: Composition

Semen is typically composed of the following substances:

Seminal fluid

The seminal fluid is formed from the fluids secreted by various organs of the male reproductive system. The glandular fluids that contribute to the formation of seminal fluids include seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands (Cowper’s glands).

The fluid thus formed by mixing-up of various fluids provides nourishment and support for sperm cells. It also eases their movement through the female reproductive tract.  

Besides, the fluid after entering the vagina neutralizes the acidic environment inside, creating a more favorable environment for the sperm cells to survive.  

Spermatozoa

Spermatozoa, or sperms are the male reproductive cells produced in the testicles. These are the primary components of semen responsible for fertilizing the female ovum (female reproductive cell) during sexual reproduction.

Sperm count is the number of sperm cells present in the ejaculated semen, which can vary widely among individuals. The physiology, structure, and motility of sperm play a big part in fertility.    

Proteins

Semen has various proteins, including enzymes, cytokines, and several other compounds that support sperm function, and processes like immune modulation, and maintain reproductive physiology.  

Fructose

Fructose in semen is secreted by the seminal vesicles. It has an essential role in providing energy for sperm motility. It helps the spermatozoa to move forward and swim to the egg (ovum).

Fructose is a type of sugar that provides energy to sperm cells and manages their metabolism along with male fertility.    

Electrolytes

Semen plasma consists of various electrolytes such as calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium. All these minerals help maintain osmotic balance and support cellular function.

Apart from this, these electrolytes support metabolic processes like spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, and sperm motility.   

Alkaline substances

Seminal fluid lies in the range of alkaline on the pH scale. This helps neutralize the acidic environment of the male and female urethra and female reproductive tract.

The alkaline nature of semen protects sperm cells from damage. It creates a favorable environment for the sperm cells and promotes their survival.   

Trace elements  

Along with several major components, semen also contains some trace elements including selenium, zinc, and vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin E, etc.

All these substances are essential for promoting sperm health and overall reproductive function. The concentration of these elements may vary from individual to individual.  

Additionally, the fluids generated by seminal vesicles form approximately 70% of the semen. While the prostate gland contributes to around 20% of fluids present in the semen. The percentage of the bulbourethral gland makes up to 5%.  

Formation of semen

The process of semen production begins with the production of sperm cells in the testicles. When the sperms are produced, they get stored in the epididymis, which are the ducts where the sperms become matured.  

After maturing, the sperm cells then move from the epididymis to the seminal vesicles, the prostate, and the bulbourethral glands, mixing up the different fluids that become semen.   

The reason why semen has nutrients  

Along with various other elements, semen also contains sperm cells. The semen plasma provides nourishment to the sperm cells and makes their survival easy.

Once the semen is released into the vagina, the sperm cells swim to the egg or ovum, which is the female reproductive cell. It fertilizes the egg to create offspring.

Sperm cells require the utmost nourishment to stay healthy and move swiftly to the egg by withstanding the harsh environment of the vagina.

The nutrient content of the semen supports the survival of the sperm cells and provides them with adequate energy for quick movements. Fructose present in the semen serves as a primary energy source for sperm.

The lowdown

The composition and makeup of semen can vary among individuals. It can be influenced by several factors such as age, diet, lifestyle, and overall health.

To know the contents of semen, a test known as semen analysis, also known as sperm analysis, can be done. The test will obtain information about the volume, quality, and characteristics of semen.

Semen analysis can be essential for the assessment of male fertility and reproductive health. This test is suggested for males facing difficulties in getting their partner pregnant.

Semen does not necessarily contribute to yeast infection. The possibility of an infection increases due to sexual activity, which includes ejaculating inside the vagina.     

This leads to an imbalance of bacteria, potentiating the chances of vaginal yeast infection. The individual may develop vaginal discomfort instantly, but the development of an infection takes some time.    

The link between semen and yeast infection       

On a pH level, the nature of semen lies in the alkaline range, whereas the vagina is moderately acidic. When the semen enters the vagina, it causes changes in the pH levels. The semen contains sugars, which can support bacterial growth.  

The mixing of semen and vaginal fluids contributes to pH level changes, thereby creating a favorable environment for yeast overgrowth in some individuals.    

Besides, the vagina is more prone to yeast infection after ejaculation, as the semen introduces bacteria and several other microbes inside the vaginal environment.

As a result, semen can disrupt the natural balance and enhance the risk of yeast infections in some individuals.   

Can semen cause yeast infection?    

Yes, in some individuals, the semen might contribute to vaginal yeast infection. The infection is caused because of a fungus known as Candida albicans.  

This fungus can trigger several changes such as hormonal changes, antibiotics, a decrease in immunity, or fluctuations in sugar (glucose) levels.   

In this way, the contact of the seminal fluid with the vagina can potentially aggravate or contribute to yeast infections in individuals who are susceptible to them.   

Indications of a yeast infection after sex   

After having sex, the female may feel discomfort in the vagina almost immediately, even though it might take some time for the bacteria to cause an infection.

The symptoms of this infection can vary from one person to another. Some common indications of vaginal yeast infection include a burning sensation during urination or sexual intercourse, itching, irritation, swelling, redness in vaginal tissues, unusual vaginal discharge, yeasty smell, rash, pain, and soreness in the vagina. 

Moreover, in some individuals, the condition may remain asymptomatic, which increases the risk of transmission to the partner.       

When to see a healthcare professional

Yeast infections are mostly treatable, as they generally do not cause too much trouble. If you suspect that you are experiencing the symptoms of it, then you must see your healthcare provider.

In case you have a history of vaginal yeast infection, and again experiencing the same symptoms then you need to get treatment as soon as possible.

Additionally, if you have been taking over-the-counter (OTC) medicines to alleviate the symptoms and still the condition is not getting better, then it is essential to seek treatment immediately.        

Ways to prevent yeast infections after sex 

Here are several ways in which you can prevent the development of yeast infection after having sexual intercourse:

Wear comfortable undergarments

Tight underwear or those made up of nylon material can trap the heat and moisture down there. This creates a favorable environment for the yeast bacteria to grow rapidly.  

The tightness irritates the skin and makes it prone to rashes. To avoid this, always wear a breathable material like cotton underwear that is not too tight and uncomfortable.     

Limit your time in hot tubs or hot baths  

Avoid spending too much time in the hot tubs or hot baths. The hot environment is not favorable for your intimate health. Too much heat exposure can turn the skin dry, and you may develop itchiness around the vagina and vulva, leading to inflammation.  

Avoid using scented products

Scented products might act as skin irritants. They can alter the chemistry of the vagina and make it prone to infections. Try to avoid using them.  

Prioritize personal hygiene

It is necessary to have a shower daily. Use plain water and avoid using harsh soaps on your skin. Prefer unscented and mild soaps.

Do not pop medications unnecessarily

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can relieve the symptoms. However, you should try to avoid taking medications unless your provider has prescribed them to you. They will recommend appropriate medications.   

The lowdown

Some individuals are comparatively more prone to developing yeast infections because of semen. However, everyone doesn’t need to experience a yeast infection after exposure to semen.  

Various factors can influence the likelihood of developing one. If you are experiencing recurrent yeast infections or other vaginal discomfort, you need to consult with a healthcare professional.   

Proper diagnosis and timely treatment will prevent the symptoms from becoming worse. This will speed up the recovery and eliminate the chances of developing it again.

Although it is relatively rare, someone can develop an allergic reaction to semen. This may happen because of semen allergy, which is termed seminal plasma hypersensitivity. In this case, the body may react to proteins found in semen.    

After contact with semen, the person may develop symptoms such as itching, swelling, burning, redness, or hives in the genital area.  

In some rare cases, the symptoms can be systemic, affecting the entire body instead of just genital organs. Severe symptoms of semen allergy include breathing difficulties or even anaphylaxis.

Composition of semen

Semen or seminal fluid is ejaculated from the male reproductive system. Its volume and composition may slightly vary from one individual to another. It is a mixture of fluids secreted by various glands of the male reproductive system. 

Here is a general overview of the elemental composition of human semen:

Sperm  

Sperm cells, or Spermatozoa, are the male reproductive cells responsible for fertilizing the female egg (ovum) during sexual reproduction. Semen contains these cells in a small percentage.  

Sperm count indicates the number of sperm cells in one milliliter (mL) of semen. It forms a small percentage of the total volume of semen.       

Seminal fluid

The fluids secreted by several glands of the male reproductive system combine and form seminal fluid. It provides nourishment to the sperm cells. The fluid contains various nutrients including citric acid, zinc, calcium, sodium, potassium, proteins, lipids, and so on.   

Prostatic fluid  

This fluid is secreted by the prostate gland. It makes up a significant portion of semen volume. Prostatic fluid contains components including citric acid, acid phosphatase, enzymes, and others.  

Overall, semen is a carrier of sperm cells. It provides nourishment and protection to sperm by facilitating a suitable environment for survival. It serves as a medium for the transportation of sperm to the female reproductive tract.

The composition of semen may differ in every individual. It depends on the parameters including age, general health, diet, and individual differences.   

Bulbourethral (Cowper’s) gland fluid

This fluid is secreted by the Cowper’s glands. It gets released before ejaculation and helps lubricate the urethra. It neutralizes any residual acidity from urine.    

Can you be allergic to semen?     

Yes, it is possible. Some people might be allergic to semen. When their skin comes into contact with semen, allergic reactions might be triggered. Some may develop mild symptoms.  

There is also a possibility of developing severe allergic reactions such as breathing problems or anaphylaxis, wherein the body becomes hypersensitive.

Several other possible complications of semen allergy are wheezing, nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulties, swelling in the tongue and throat, dizziness, fainting, and weak pulse. See your doctor if you develop such symptoms after exposure to semen.

Is semen allergy common?

Semen allergy is not quite common though. The prevalence of semen allergy cannot be exactly known, as most of the cases go unreported. If the exact stat is known, then the number would be greater than the reported cases. 

People may feel embarrassed to disclose their allergy problems. Some people may even not realize the true cause of such allergic reactions. Thus, it may go unnoticed.      

Diagnosis of semen allergy     

A semen allergy can happen in both males and females. If you are experiencing several symptoms of semen allergies, when you come into contact with semen, then you must see a healthcare provider.                  

They will conduct diagnostic evaluation by performing thorough analysis by checking medical history, physical examination, and sometimes allergy testing.      

Treatment techniques involve the avoidance of semen exposure. By employing several techniques such as barrier methods during sexual activity, one can prevent allergic reactions to semen.

Also, desensitization therapy done through medical intervention and supervision can be beneficial for the avoidance of allergy symptoms. 

Treatment

In case you are experiencing symptoms like itching, swelling, burning sensation, redness, or hives in the genital area, after coming into contact with semen, then you should necessarily consult a healthcare provider.

They will examine your symptoms and suggest an appropriate treatment. The treatment techniques involve desensitizing, thereby making you less sensitive to your partner’s semen. This will make it easy to get pregnant naturally without any allergic reactions.  

To conceive, the provider may suggest a technique, called intrauterine insemination (IUI), which involves washing of sperms free of semen proteins to prevent an unwanted reaction.   

For individuals with a severe sensitivity to semen, the way of conception is assisted reproductive technology. Your healthcare provider will recommend a suitable technique for your condition.    

These techniques include, In vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which may lead to successful conception and pregnancy.      

The semen volume in males differs from one individual to another. The amount of semen ejaculated by a male depends on various factors, including age, overall health, how frequently they ejaculate, and so on.

According to some parameters developed by several studies and research, on average, a healthy male ejaculates typically about 1.5 to 5 milliliters (mL) of semen. This is equivalent to approximately one-third to one teaspoonful.  

Semen volume

Semen is nothing but the seminal fluid, that gets ejected from the penile during the peak of sexual stimulation. This fluid is the combination of fluids that are produced and secreted by several glands present in the pelvic region.

Seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands (Cowper’s glands) are the glands that secret fluids, which contribute to the formation of semen. Sperm cells also get mixed with this seminal fluid. Sperms are the male reproductive cells. 

The contents of semen are spermatozoa (sperm cells), seminal fluid, and several other components that support sperm health and provide nourishment to sperm cells.  

Semen analysis

Semen analysis is a test that is done to evaluate semen health and check how much semen does a man produce. It checks for various parameters and helps with the assessment of male fertility. It indicates the health of the reproductive system.

The tests provide valuable information regarding sperm count, sperm motility, morphology and shape, and several other characteristics that are essential for fertilization and conception.

Here is how a typical sperm analysis test is done:

Semen collection

Typically, a semen sample is collected into a sterile container that is provided by the healthcare provider. While collecting the sample, the use of things like lubricants, condoms, etc. must be avoided. Such things might potentiate the risk of contamination of the sample.

Sample processing

After collection of the sample, it is sent to the laboratory for analysis. The evaluation of the sample must be done within an hour of its collection, which will obtain accurate results. The sample will be left to get liquified because it is too fluidic after ejaculation.

Checking sperm count

Sperm count is the number of sperm cells present in one milliliter (mL) of semen. The sperm count is considered to be in a healthy range when it is greater than 15 million sperm cells per milliliter. With this count, the individual will be able to conceive easily.

When the sperm count is low, this condition is known as oligospermia. This condition can give rise to fertility issues in males.

Analyzing sperm motility

Sperm motility analysis will check the ability of sperm cells to move and swim to the ovum (female reproductive cell). This test checks for the progressive as well as the non-progressive movement of sperm cells.

If the sperm motility is above 40%, it is considered normal. The higher the percentage, the better the ability to swim to the ovum (egg). It enhances the chances of conception. Men with low sperm motility may struggle with fertility problems.

Sperm morphology

The test examines the morphology, that is the size and the shape of the sperms. A normal sperm has an oval head and a long tail. Whereas, an abnormal one has some defects either in its head or tail.

A misshapen sperm fails to fertilize the egg, leading to infertility issues. The test helps evaluate the health and detect the defects in its morphology.

Other parameters  

Along with these assessments, several other parameters will also be checked. These include the pH levels, liquefaction time, semen volume, white blood cell count, and so on.  

Does semen volume affect fertility?  

Semen volume is not necessarily associated with fertility or reproductive health. Males who ejaculate higher amounts of semen might as well have fertility problems because of low sperm count, low sperm motility, deformed sperm shape, etc.

While those with low semen volume may have normal sperm count, good sperm motility, and healthy morphology, and hence have no fertility issues. Therefore, semen volume does not influence fertility.  

Things to keep in mind

The sperm evaluation done once will not obtain a complete assessment of male fertility and reproductive health. These parameters may vary based on several factors like illness, medications, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposures.  

This is why, the healthcare provider might suggest repeating the semen analysis to do the assessments and get accurate results. In case you are experiencing issues with conception and are concerned about fertility, then it is advisable to talk to a healthcare professional or fertility specialist.

They will conduct your physical examination, ask you several questions, and recommend semen evaluation tests. Once the reports are obtained, they will prescribe some treatments and guide you further.