Semen
- This is an article about Human Anatomy
Semen is an organic fluid (also known as seminal fluid) that usually contains spermatozoa. It is secreted by the gonads (sexual glands) and other sexual organs of male or hermaphroditic animals for the fertilization of female ova. The process of discharge is called ejaculation.
Appearance and consistency of human semen
Most semen is white in color, but grey or even yellowish semen can be normal as well. Blood in the semen can cause a pink or reddish color, known as hematospermia, and may indicate a medical problem that should be evaluated by a doctor if it does not readily disappear.
After ejaculation, semen first goes through a clotting process and then becomes more liquid. It is postulated that the initial clotting helps keep the semen in the vaginal canal, but liquefaction frees the sperm to make their long journey to the ova. Immediately after ejaculation semen is typically a sticky, jelly-like liquid often forming globules. Within 5 to 40 minutes it will become more watery and liquid before finally drying.
Semen quality
Semen quality is a measure of the ability of semen to accomplish fertilization. Thus, it is a measure of fertility in a man. It is the sperm in the semen that is of importance, and therefore semen quality involves both sperm quantity and quality.
Semen as an anti-depressant
Research has demonstrated that semen may have anti-depressant properties. In studies, women who did not use condoms but instead absorbed semen vaginally (as was the norm among humans before increased concerns of contracting HIV or other sexually-transmitted diseases) sustained a better mood. Research has not yet demonstrated whether this effect may also be obtained from consuming semen following oral sex, but researchers hypothesize similar benefits.
Semen and transmission of disease
Semen can be the vehicle for many sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
It is also hypothesized that components of semen, such as the spermatozoa as well as the seminal plasma, can cause immunosuppression in the body when introduced to the bloodstream or lymph. Evidence for this dates back to 1898, when Elie Metchnikoff injected a guinea pig with its own and foreign guinea pig sperm, finding that an antibody was produced in response; however, the antibody was inactive, pointing to a suppression response by the immune system.
Further research, such as that by S. Mathur and J.M. Goust, demonstrated that non-preexisting antibodies were produced in humans in response to the sperm. These antibodies mistakenly recognized native T lymphocytes as foreign antigens, and consequently, the T lymphocytes would fall under attack by the body's B lymphocytes.
Other semen components shown to spur an immunosuppressive effect are seminal plasma and seminal lymphocytes.
Blood in the semen (hematospermia)
The presence of blood in the semen may be undetectable (it only can be seen microscopically) or visible in the fluid. Its cause could be the result of inflammation, infection, blockage, or injury of the male reproductive tract or a problem within the urethra, testicles, epididymis, and prostate.
Further semen analysis and other urogenital system tests might be needed to find out the cause of blood in the semen.
Semen allergy
In rare cases, people have been known to experience allergic reactions to seminal fluids, known as human seminal plasma hypersensitivity. Symptoms can be either localized or systemic and may include vaginal itching, redness, swelling, or blisters within 30 minutes of contact. They may also include generalized itching, hives, and even difficulty breathing.
The best way to test for human seminal plasma sensitivity is to use a condom during intercourse. If symptoms dissipate with the use of a condom, it is possible that sensitivity to semen is present. Mild cases of semen allergy can often be overcome by repeated exposure to seminal fluid. In more severe cases, it is important to seek the advice of a physician, particularly in the event that a couple is trying to conceive, in which case, artificial insemination may be indicated.
- Also see these articles on Liquids
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