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.
