Life Span of Sperm: How Long Sperm Live Inside and Outside the Body

What Is the Average Life Span of Sperm?

The average life span of sperm, or the survival period of sperm, is largely based on the environment in which it exists. For example, the sperm, when inside the female reproductive tract, can survive much longer than when outside. This is due to the sperm remaining in the protection of nutrient-rich cervical mucus. This also means that conception can occur even if intercourse takes place a few days prior to ovulation. The difference between the survival period of sperm inside and outside the female body suggests the crucial role of the environment in which it exists.

• Inside the female body : Can survive inside the female body for up to 5 days under favourable conditions.
• On Surfaces (Clothes, Bedding) : It is difficult for sperm to survive for more than a few minutes to an hour.
• In Open Air : In open air, sperm die once the semen dries.

Life Span of Sperm Inside the Female Body

The life span of sperm inside the female body depends on the quality of cervical mucus and the timing of ovulation. On the days prior to ovulation, the cervical mucus creates a nourishing, slippery, and alkaline environment to help sperm not only survive but also swim efficiently towards the egg. Under these fertile conditions, sperm can survive up to 5 days, giving them time to wait for the egg to be released. This is why pregnancy chances are high when the sperm survive in the fallopian tube during this fertile window.

However, the conditions are far less favourable outside of this fertile window. During this time, the cervical mucus is thick and hostile, in which sperm struggle to swim and even survive. The pH of the vagina remains acidic during this period, dropping the curve of its survival dramatically to a few hours. This is why the timing of intercourse plays a crucial role in deciding the success of conception.

Also Read : How many Sperms do you Need to get pregnant?

Factors Affecting the LifeSpan of Sperm

Here are some key factors that influence the survival period of sperm:

1. Cervical Mucus Quality:

• The quality of cervical mucus decides whether the sperm is going to survive or die. This quality mainly depends on the timing of intercourse.
• During the fertile window, that is, a few days before ovulation, the cervical mucus allows sperm to survive for up to 5 days.
• On the other hand, during the non-fertile window, this mucus is thick, dry, and acidic, which acts as a barrier for sperm to swim towards the egg; hence, they die in a few hours.

2. pH Levels:

• It must be noted that vaginal opening is naturally acidic for most of the menstrual cycle, which is hostile to the survival of sperm.
• But during the fertile window, this pH becomes alkaline, allowing sperm to not only survive but also thrive in the environment for up to 5 days.

3. Temperature & Environment:

• Sperm can only thrive at body or body-like temperatures inside reproductive tracts.
• Which means that extreme hot or cold temperatures, like those found in saunas and external surfaces, can immediately or within a few minutes kill the sperm.
• Once exposed to an open environment, the semen quickly dries out, eventually decreasing its motility.

4. Semen Health & Sperm Quality:

• Semen health and sperm quality are also contributing factors in the survival period of sperm inside and outside the body.
• Lifestyle choices, nutrition, and medical conditions influence the quality and health of sperm and semen.

Also Read : Which food increases sperm count?

How the Life Span of Sperm Affects Fertility

The life span of a sperm and the fertility window are closely connected. During the menstrual cycle, when fertility is at its peak, the sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. This leads couples to time their intercourse strategically for better results. Also, it is not necessary to have intercourse on the same day of ovulation. Here are a few things to remember:

• The best chances for a successful conception are 2 days before ovulation or the day of ovulation itself.
• To know one’s fertility window, it is crucial to understand fertility awareness methods, such as tracking cervical mucus and cycle patterns.

Can You Increase Sperm Life Span?

Although the life span of sperm is determined biologically, certain ways can help improve sperm quality and the female reproductive tract environment. Couples aiming to conceive can adopt the following lifestyle advice to enhance the lifespan of sperm during the fertility window:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, like a balanced diet, hydration, and avoiding bad habits like smoking or alcohol.
• Avoid exposure to heat, like in saunas or hot tubs, or if doing so, wear tight clothing.
• Improve the quality of sperm by an antioxidant-rich diet, exercise, and stress management.
• Plan intercourse with respect to the ovulation timeline to maximise chances of conception.

Also Read : Which Nuts Increase Sperm Count?

Conclusion

Finally, it can be concluded that sperm can last for different durations based on the environment they are in, from only a few minutes in extreme external conditions to up to five days in favourable conditions of the female reproductive tract. Understanding this variation is essential for couples to have well-timed intercourse. Although timely planned intercourse has the highest chances of success, do not hesitate to consult a fertility specialist if facing any challenges. Professional guidance and modern technology can help you manage and tackle these challenges.