Conceiving a child is a complex process, all the subtleties of which should be studied by people who have sexual intercourse. If the ultimate goal is not the birth of a baby, then such knowledge will help to properly protect yourself. Otherwise, the spouses will clearly understand what actions will help them become parents sooner. Surprisingly, in the modern world, oversaturated with information, including about the sexual side of relationships, myths are still widespread in society, which many take at face value. Surely, many have seen on thematic forums reflections on the topic of how much sperm is needed to get pregnant. It would seem a simple question, but it turns out, no, there are a lot of answers. Let's look at the main myths so that everyone can understand where he was wrong.
Sperm formation
Not all men understand this, and certainly not many women. Some believe that a man produces a limited amount of sperm, and even calculated how much it would be in liters. In fact, it develops throughout life. The more often the release occurs, the more it is produced. By the way, there is another point that men often speculate on. Despite assurances that in the absence of a regular sexual life, the testicles can burst, get sick, and the like, absolutely nothing will happen to them. With complete sexual rest, there will be night dreams of a sexual nature, which means wet dreams.
Number of sexual contacts
Well, closing this question, it should be said about the popular myth that for a successful conception, several sexual contacts are necessary. This question is directly related to how much sperm is needed to get pregnant. In fact, with each successive sexual contact, the quality of sperm, and its quantity, drops sharply. Therefore, the next sexual intercourse is best done after a while (for example, every other day). If we take into account that spermatozoa retain the ability to fertilize for 3-7 days, then you can have one sexual contact a couple of days before ovulation, and one exactly on the same day.
What is sperm
We keep talking about how much sperm it takes to get pregnant. What is the notorious liquid? Sperm is a kind of cocktail. Its formation involves the testes with appendages, the prostate gland and the glands of the urethra. The composition includes spermoplasma, as well as cellular elements. Let's decipher these concepts. Sperm plasma is seminal fluid, which is mostly produced by the prostate gland. Cellular elements include spermatozoa, leukocytes, and epithelial cells. Finally, there are additional, non-cellular elements in the composition. These are fatty inclusions, lecithin and much more. That is, we are already directly approaching the answer, how much sperm is needed to get pregnant. Nature has calculated everything for us. Just one ejaculation contains enough substances to effect conception.
Amount of ejaculant
It may be different. Moreover, this number depends on many factors. This is the constitution of a man, diet, general condition, age characteristics, bad habits and chronic diseases. And here you can divide the ailments of the body as a whole or organs, glands and systems that are involved in the process of sperm formation.
However, if we average all the values, it turns out that the volume of the ejaculant is about 4 ml. Each ml contains about 20 million spermatozoa. It is already clear that the question of how much sperm is needed for a girl to become pregnant is not entirely correct. One sperm is more than enough, and with each sexual contact, about 80 million of them enter the body of a woman.
From theory to practice
Each of us has seen a picture of fertilization in anatomy textbooks. One sperm fertilizes the egg, after which it becomes impermeable to the rest. But why did nature reward a man with a 4 ml ejaculant? And all because there is a significant difference between the PH level of the vagina and sperm. Therefore, the question of how much sperm is needed to get pregnant and give birth to a healthy child is so important. In the vagina, increased acidity, which is detrimental to sperm. Nature created this barrier not in vain, but in order to reach the goal only the most tenacious of all. Seminal fluid, which makes up most of the ejaculant, has an alkaline reaction. Due to this, the barrier is temporarily neutralized, and the spermatozoa can enter the uterus, where the environment is more suitable for them.
The lifespan of a spermatozoon
Having reached the uterus, it can retain the ability to fertilize for 4-7 days. However, his journey is not over yet. If the sperm cell is in the uterine cavity, then it will wait for only one. The aged egg will descend into the uterus to collapse, and the next menstruation will come. In order to fertilize it, the sperm will have to climb higher, through the fallopian tubes, overcoming the cervical mucus. By the way, it is at the time when the egg matures that the mucus temporarily becomes passable for spermatozoa.
On this way, all weak and defective cells should be eliminated. And the most healthy ones themselves undergo changes that increase their ability to fertilize. From the surface of the spermatozoa, special substances are removed that have until now performed a protective function, and in addition, the flagella begin to move much faster. The term of life is coming to an end and you need to have time to complete your mission. As you can see, nature has calculated everything well. The most important thing is not how much sperm is needed. A woman would become pregnant from a tenth of the ejaculant released, the most important thing is that he gets into the vagina on the right day of the cycle.
sperm quality
This is the deciding factor. It is on this that the conception of an heir depends. Therefore, if we talk about how much (amount) of sperm is needed to get pregnant, we can call the same average figure of 4 ml, however, it is necessary that at least 15% of the spermatozoa contained in it be alive. Everything superfluous will still flow out of the vagina, and only living cells can penetrate the uterus and fallopian tubes, where the main prize, that is, a mature egg, will await them.
Why does sperm quality deteriorate? In most cases, these are alcohol intake, smoking and drug addiction, serious diseases of the reproductive system. To understand the causes and get the right treatment, it is very important to pass a spermogram. Based on the results, your doctor will tell you how many active sperm are in your seminal fluid and how active they are.
After intercourse
This is another question that I would like to answer. Especially in women's forums, it is often discussed how much sperm should be kept. You can get pregnant without taking any additional measures. There is absolutely no need to keep your legs up, refuse to go to the toilet and perform a number of other actions. Let's repeat. Sperm shoots deep into the vagina, while the seminal fluid instantly makes the environment alkaline, opening the way for sperm to the uterus. In a matter of seconds, they overcome the neck, and it doesn’t matter at all whether you are standing or lying. Only seminal fluid will flow out of the vagina, which has already fulfilled its function.
Instead of a conclusion
And what do gynecologists say, how much sperm do you need to conceive a child? One ejaculation is quite enough, the most important thing is that the man and woman are healthy, and the latter is on the eve of ovulation. Then the conception of a child is almost guaranteed. You will not need a "control" sexual intercourse, a long stay in the "birch" position and a number of additional measures. And to be sure that both partners are healthy, you need to visit a doctor and take the necessary tests. Therefore, even at the stage of pregnancy planning, visit your district gynecologist and undergo an examination.
During every minute, 50,000 spermatozoa are produced in a man's body. During every hour, his testicles produce 3,000,000 spermatozoa. During each day - 72,000,000 spermatozoa. This amazing process, combined with incredible performance, begins at puberty and continues until death. Compare those it with maturation within 28 days, that is, once a month, the eggs in the body of a woman (and even then before menopause).
However, due to the size of the spermatozoa, the amount of sperm excreted is not at all that large. If you put together all the spermatozoa, thanks to which the conception of all the people who have ever lived and now live, they would only be enough to fill a thimble. The sperm produced by a man during the day, collected together, would be no different from a grain of sand. Naturally, they are not visible to the naked eye, and their structure can only be studied using an electron microscope.
Male sperm is a complex substance made up of over 30 different components, including citric acid, fructose, highly concentrated potassium, and the essential element zinc. Sperm also contains sulfur, copper, magnesium, calcium, vitamin C and B12, i.e. all the most important chemical elements for human health. In addition, seminal vesicles contain 15 different prostate secretions that stimulate muscle contractions and dilate blood vessels. Despite the presence of citric acid, semen has a slightly alkaline property.
There are two types of spermatozoa: one contains the sex chromosome X, the other Y. Fusion with the egg of the Y sperm leads to the birth of a boy, and the X sperm? girls.
A study by Israeli scientists confirmed that the sex of the unborn child is more likely to be determined at conception. It is believed that Y-spermatozoa are more mobile, but have a shorter lifespan. Therefore, if conception occurs during the period of ovulation, that is, when a mature egg leaves the ovary, they have time to reach the goal faster than X-sperms. Then a boy will be conceived. Conversely, if conception occurs a day before ovulation, then there is a greater chance of fertilization of the egg by an X-sperm, which has a longer life expectancy. And a girl will be conceived.
newborn spermatozoon
"Newborn spermatozoa" are microscopic sex cells. They are grouped in testicles in ranks, like soldiers on parade. As they develop, they form an oval-shaped head, a thin neck, and a tail (flagellum) that is long compared to their microscopic size. The spermatozoon contains a set of 23 chromosomes that are located in the head and contain genes that pass on family resemblance to future generations. Spermatozoa move with the help of a flagellum. Whiplash-like blows propel them forward on the long journey to the awaiting fertilization of the egg.
Of the many millions of spermatozoa released during one ejaculation (ejaculation), only one can penetrate the egg. A fertilized egg develops a special kind of defense that prevents other sperm from entering it. For the normal process of fertilization, it is important not only the formation of a sufficient number of full-fledged spermatozoa, but also a certain composition of the liquid part of the sperm: the optimal concentration of fructose, zinc and calcium ions, biologically active peptides and a low level of acidity in it. The state of these indicators is affected by the level of hormones and radiation, the action of certain chemicals, and even the psycho-emotional state.
The tail of the spermatozoon moves in a snake-like manner, curving in several places at once. 800 times the lower part of the tail must wag from side to side in order for the sperm to move forward 1 cm.
testicular activity
Testicles can be compared to a conveyor belt, as they work without interruption. The activity of each seminiferous tubule that produces spermatozoa does not stop for a minute. The huge conveyor line tirelessly moves forward without smoke breaks, lunch breaks and nightly downtime. When the finished product leaves the line, some of the cells left behind are halfway through, while others are just starting to live. At each stage of development, a specific rhythm and speed of movement is observed, which can neither be slowed down nor accelerated. The formation of the germ cell takes a long time, about 72 days. At the end of the production process, not all of them are in perfect shape. Some do not have a flagellum, others have an underdeveloped head, and others are deformed. This was to be expected in such a mass production series. Several million poorly built, unformed spermatozoa do not reduce a man's ability to fertilize. Inside the testicles, the male cells can only perform small movements.
The activity of the epididymis
The epididymis are long, narrow tubules that lie rolled up over both "twins". When the formation of spermatozoa ends, they pass from the testicles to the appendages. They are not yet sufficiently developed, unable to move properly and fertilize the egg. Sperm motility is an important factor in fertility. To win the race, the male cage must move forward and only forward without changing direction. Spermatozoa acquire mobility only in the initial part of the epididymis. The walls of the duct of the epididymis secrete a fluid, under the influence of which the spermatozoa begin to move. But they still have a poor sense of direction, which makes them swim in circles, that is, stay in place. This means that they would lose the race to the egg in disgrace. Twelve days lasts for the maturation of spermatozoa in the tubules of the appendages before they sufficiently learn to swim. At this time, the most sensitive muscles located in the walls of the tubules push them forward. The huge distance that they have to overcome is about 6 m. The liquid nutrient medium serves them as food, helps them to mature and gain the necessary mobility. Summing up, we can say that the epididymis is a real school of courage.
Short shelf life of spermatozoa
Sperm need to spend 72 days in the testicles and 12 days in the epididymis to reach the level of maturity, for a total of almost 3 months. Only then are they ready to embark on the long journey to the seminal vesicles and on to the prostate gland. Mature sex cells accumulate in the epididymis, but not for long. They have a limited shelf life. They keep "freshness" and activity less than a month. After that, they rapidly age and soon die. The dead spermatozoa decompose, and the nutrients contained in them, including proteins, are absorbed by the testicles. If a man ejaculates only once a month, it seems to him that he is no longer able to fertilize a woman. He thinks his sperm are too old, or dying, or already dead. But in fact, the production of male germ cells is a continuous process. Millions of new sperm enter the epididymis in an endless stream and travel through them. While there may be old sperm in erupted sperm, brand new ones are present along with them, ready to start the race to the egg and fulfill their chances.
The male sex cell develops about 75 days from the moment of occurrence. Therefore, the consequences of harmful effects may appear after a few months. Some relative guarantee of the correct development of germ cells is provided by strict adherence to nutritional standards. Do scientific studies show that being overweight in men leads to changes in testosterone and estrogen levels? the main hormones responsible for the formation of sperm. In addition, with excess weight, the temperature of the testicles rises, which for the successful formation of spermatozoa must be below body temperature. For the same reason, frequent hot baths are undesirable.
sweet seed
Sperm (seminal fluid), produced by the male gonads, consists of spermatozoa, seminal vesicle fluid and prostate secretion. Spermatozoa make up only 3% of the ejaculate on average. The remaining 97% is the secret of the prostate gland and the fluid of the seminal vesicles. In the first portion of the ejaculate, the content of spermatozoa is higher than in subsequent ones, and especially in the last one. The ejaculate contains approximately 300 to 500 million spermatozoa. Sperm is a complex liquid, saturated with various compounds and sugar, and not all components are known. Fructose (the sugar found in semen) can serve as a source of energy for spermatozoa, which, however, still needs to be proven. Sperm is alkaline while vaginal secretions are acidic. It is believed that the alkaline substance coats the spermatozoa and protects them during their stay inside the vagina. Prostate secretion contains strong antibacterial compounds. The semen is ejected in a liquid state, then it quickly turns into a jelly, and after 20 minutes the semen liquefies again. It is possible that this helps germ cells survive in the vagina. The average ejaculate volume, provided that an orgasm occurs with 3-day breaks, is from 3 to 5 cm, the quantitative expression of the ejection may vary depending on age, health status, the amount of fluid drunk, and so on. In a partner, sperm can cause an allergic reaction. Allergy manifests itself in the form of a rash or prolonged itching of the reproductive organs. This happens extremely rarely, most often such symptoms indicate the presence of an infection.
In addition to its direct function of fertilizing the egg, sperm has a positive effect on the body of a woman, except, of course, in those cases when she becomes a carrier of diseases (AIDS, hepatitis, venereal). Based on this, hormonal contraceptives, on the one hand, are preferable to condoms, on the other? the latter remain the most effective means of preventing infectious diseases transmitted through sexual intercourse.
In a partner, sperm can cause an allergic reaction. Allergy manifests itself in the form of a rash or prolonged itching of the reproductive organs. This happens extremely rarely, most often such symptoms indicate the presence of an infection.
It's no secret that some French manufacturers use sperm to make cosmetics. This cosmetic is very effective and is not cheap. The thing is that in nature there is no more valuable and unique product than sperm. The cosmetic value of sperm is determined by the presence of extremely useful substances in its composition.
It turns out that the world-famous Viagra and some other popular remedies for impotence do not increase the activity of spermatozoa, as one might expect, but inhibit it, which negatively affects the ability to fertilize.
small leak
Before ejaculation, a small drop of liquid wets the end of the penis. It comes from the Cooper's gland and gives a strong alkaline reaction, neutralizing all traces of acids after urination. She cleans and flushes the urethra, preparing it for the passage of semen. This fluid contains several thousand spermatozoa. There is a theory that this is a "team of superstars" ready to win the race. To avoid conception, even a small part of this fluid must not enter the vagina, otherwise the sperm can find their way to the egg. Removing the penis from the vagina just before ejaculation is called coitus interruptus. This method is often resorted to by young couples seeking to avoid pregnancy. However, they are at great risk of becoming mom and dad in nine months. This is often caused by a small drop from the Cooper gland. Interrupted intercourse requires skills and abilities to control your reactions and manage orgasm, which are most often absent in youth. This can cause intense tension among partners. However, many experienced couples who have reached maturity choose this particular method of protection, the most ancient and widespread. But it does not protect against contracting sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS, while a condom provides at least partial protection.
The strongest survives
It is generally accepted that only 200 sperm cells survive during the journey to the egg. Some are unable to overcome the first obstacle - the cervix, others die when moving through the uterus. Still others may confuse the road and not get into the right oviduct. The sperm can live in the birth canal of a woman from 2 to 7 days. This is how long it takes to fertilize an egg. With regard to sperm, the statement is true that quality is more important than quantity. The key issue is the problem of mobility: the cell must swim in only one direction, that is, forward. The average sperm speed is 3 mm per minute. The faster ones have a better chance of reaching the target before they die. So, speed and mobility are the main conditions for winning races. Those who are lucky enough to survive accumulate in the widest part of the oviduct. This is where they eagerly await the arrival of the egg. If she is already in place, they gather around her, selflessly trying to break through her protective shell. Wriggling, the sperm hits the outer wall of the cell, releasing chemical compounds that dissolve its protective layer. Eventually, small holes appear in the wall, and a few happy sperm cells get inside the egg. From those who succeeded, only microscopic heads remain. Now they face the last barrier, the last bastion to take. This thin outer shell that protects the nucleus of the egg is the most difficult obstacle. And only one sperm can overcome it. Perhaps they really will be the best of the best. Its head moves to the middle, and its nucleus connects with the nucleus of the egg. A conception takes place - a total implosion, a perfect fusion, a complete union of two nuclei. According to generally accepted ideas, this reunion is a manifestation of a powerful, all-encompassing microforce. It is this that determines all the parameters of our personality. Chromosomes connect in pairs, once and for all determining a set of hereditary traits. The new life is a perfectly proportioned, democratic mix of genes from both parents.
The problem of infertility
Infertility is the inability of an organism to produce offspring. According to one study, 15% of American and 12% of British couples experience infertility, with 35% of cases due to male infertility. In 10-15% of cases, the cause lies in the infertility of both partners. Experts say that a cause for concern appears only if conception does not occur within a year of intense sexual activity. Some of them believe that this period should be extended to a full 18 months. Currently, male infertility is becoming more common, and the cause of this phenomenon is unknown. In 1950, the average sperm count per semen was 40 million higher than in 1988. One of the most important causes may be overheating of the testicles (staying in hot water is a primitive method of contraception). Tight clothing can act in a similar way, raising the temperature in the groin and perineum. Studies on the relationship between the type of underwear and fertility have shown that men who wear boxer shorts have a higher sperm count in the seed than those who prefer tight underwear. Unfavorable environmental factors (radiation, air pollution with lead compounds and other toxic substances, etc.) also have a harmful effect on the quality of spermatozoa. At present, the prevailing opinion is that they cause much more damage to health than was commonly believed. The testicles are more exposed to harmful environmental influences than the internal organs. Therefore, it should be remembered that the testicles are an extremely sensitive organ, and everything that is associated with unjustified risk should be avoided.
Insufficient intake of vitamin C (less than 60 mg per day) adversely affects the condition of the sperm, and is believed to affect the occurrence of various disorders in the offspring. Well-known risk factors are tobacco, alcohol and drugs. Anabolic drugs that bodybuilders are fond of are also very dangerous. Not all men remember the health of their offspring when choosing a profession. And statistics show that painters, polishers and other people working with paints and varnishes change the quantity and quality of sperm, and anomalies in their children are more common. And, for example, the wives of dentists have an increased risk of miscarriage due to the fact that their husbands inhale the fumes of drugs that are administered to patients. Studies of sperm and offspring of computer scientists have so far yielded conflicting results. And yet, experts advise both men and women engaged in such work to interrupt or limit it at least a month before a possible conception.
Spermatozoa are maximally mobile in autumn and winter, at the same time, sperm contains the maximum concentration of germ cells. The months from October to February are recommended by scientists as the most suitable for conception. In addition, during these months, the probability of conceiving a boy is most likely, since in the summer, due to the heat of the Y chromosome, the carriers of the male genetic code are much inferior in viability to the female X chromosomes.
Changes in the process of maturation of spermatozoa, a decrease in their number, mobility, and the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in them can cause male infertility, which, although somewhat less common than female, requires no less thorough research and treatment.
semen volume
Sufficient for conception, the amount of sperm is from 2 to 5 cm. If the ejection volume is smaller, the sperm becomes thick and viscous, and the spermatozoa are poorly protected from the effects of acidic vaginal secretions. If the volume is larger, then the sperm is too liquefied, and there is a high probability of germ cells scattering into the vagina. Don't lose hope! If the results of the analysis are not in your favor, do not despair. In a test tube, spermatozoa die much faster than in the body. In a test tube, they live only from 2 to 6 hours. The stress associated with taking the test, and the fear of being diagnosed with infertility, can adversely affect the results. To err is human, and it may well happen within the walls of a laboratory. The results may be affected by poor quality packaging, calculation error, improper storage. Carry out several (from 2 to 3) analyzes within 6-7 weeks, changing laboratory assistants. Only after that, if all the results gave a clear negative result, decide how to proceed. Rare congenital anomalies include impaired function of the testicular tubules that produce spermatozoa. Sex cells begin to turn into spermatozoa, but most of them do not mature. Currently, highly trained specialists can separate mature spermatozoa and use them to fertilize an egg outside the woman's body. Male infertility remains a poorly understood problem. Therefore, try to avoid treatment in clinics that have not received official recognition. Instead of an operation to remove the nodes of the vas deferens or a testicular biopsy, you can resort to artificial insemination of a partner with your own or donor sperm. However, these operations are expensive both in material and psychological terms and do not always give a positive result. Regardless of the decision you make, try to feel like a man. Drive away gloomy thoughts, they only increase the state of tension, weaken self-confidence. Don't lose hope and keep trying. You should know that there have been cases where men with hopelessly low sperm counts have surprised professionals, their partners, and even themselves with unexpected fatherhood.
Myths about sperm
"You can run out of sperm" This naive and preposterous notion of the processes occurring in the body is widespread among boys who masturbate frequently. But a surprisingly large number of mature men believe this too. Moreover, although the vast majority of men know that the body produces sperm throughout life, the mentioned opinion cannot be dispelled. Abstinence does not affect the quality of spermatozoa in any way. Recently, semen studies have been conducted 12 and then 120 hours after the last intercourse. Analyzes showed that abstinence had no effect on either the shape, or the mobility, or the number of spermatozoa. However, prolonged abstinence causes a decrease in the number of high-quality spermatozoa.
"Ejaculation exhausts the body"
This misconception is closely related to the previous one. For a long time, coaches and leaders of sports teams demanded from their wards abstinence and abstaining from sex at best 4-5 days before the start of important sports competitions. Recently, researchers from the University of Colorado studied the physical performance of athletes who: a) abstained from sex for 5 days, b) had sex in the last 24 hours. They were tested: endurance, readiness for effort, mobility, reaction speed, balance, muscle strength and other important indicators for athletes. The researchers noted "the absence of any significant and measurable" differences in both groups of athletes.
"In old age, sperm are no longer produced"
At the age of 70, sperm production decreases. But studies show the presence of sperm in the ejaculate in 48% of men aged 80 to 90 years. Currently, most scientists agree that in older men, spermatozoa are less viable than in young people. There is a slight increase in the number of deformed spermatozoa, which can cause malformations in the conceived child. The degree of risk in such cases cannot be determined, since a man at this age no longer aspires to become a father.
The conditions necessary for conception concern both men and women. Moreover, the motives of both those and others can be directly opposite: either the couple does not plan pregnancy, or, conversely, is waiting for it to occur. In both cases, you need to know how fertilization occurs and what factors affect it. In particular, how much seminal fluid is needed for conception to occur.
fertilization mechanism
In order to understand how much sperm is needed for conception, it is important to understand exactly how it happens. A woman's egg must be fertilized by sperm released during ejaculation among millions of brothers in one portion of sperm, which is 4-6 ml. For this meeting to take place, efforts must also be made by other spermatozoa, which stick around the shell of the egg, dissolve it and allow the most active to penetrate inside. Here it should be taken into account that the ability to fertilize the sperm remains from 15 minutes to 3 hours after ejaculation.
A portion of sperm for fertilization can be minimal, much less than the norm of 4-6 ml, in this case it is not the quantity that matters, but the quality, that is, a set of characteristics of seminal fluid capable of conception.
In fact, just a couple of drops of seminal fluid is enough for fertilization to occur. After all, even one drop contains about a million spermatozoa.
The success of conception depends not only on the number of spermatozoa, but also on their quality.
The properties of the ejaculate depend on the individual characteristics of the male body:
- lifestyle;
- health status at a particular moment;
- hereditary factors, etc.
However, there are average indicators of the quality of the ejaculate:
The myth regarding the amount of sperm required for conception says that in order to fill the vagina and, therefore, bring the chances of fertilization to the maximum, you need 2 tablespoons of seminal fluid, that is, 20 ml - a rare man is able to reproduce such a “dose”. Nevertheless, women successfully become pregnant and give birth to babies from a much smaller volume of ejaculate.
The process of conception: the female side of the issue
Since pregnancy is possible only with the participation of both male and female germ cells, the indicators for fertilization must be considered from both sides.
The success of conception depends more on the state of health of both partners than on the volume of sperm: if everything is in order, then the amount of ejaculate will be enough, and the acidic environment of the vagina will not be a hindrance
Day of the monthly cycle
Usually with a 28-day monthly cycle, ovulation occurs on the 14th day with a deviation of 2-3 days
Microflora of the vagina
The vagina contains an acidic environment with a specific microflora, consisting mainly of lacto- and bifidobacteria, so only the most persistent, most tenacious, high-quality sperm can reach the target. On its way, it must also overcome cervical mucus, which is secreted by the cervix under the influence of hormones. During ovulation, the mucus liquefies, which allows a strong and healthy sperm to reach the egg without hindrance.
Under the influence of inflammatory processes, hormonal imbalance in the production and changes in the consistency of cervical mucus may not occur. In this case, the couple has difficulty conceiving, which can be identified by a postcoital test that examines the effect of the acidic environment of mucus on the alkaline environment of sperm.
When liquefying cervical mucus, its consistency resembles egg white
Physiological features
The amount of sperm entering the uterus depends on the anatomical features of the latter. The vaginal part of the uterus is turned downward and backward, and its bottom is upward and anterior, which forms an obtuse angle between the body of the uterus and its cervix. Sometimes anatomically, this angle can turn backwards, to the left or to the right. In this case, one speaks of . When not with a pronounced bend, the sperm easily penetrates the uterus, but with a strong bend it accumulates in the vagina, that is, the probability of fertilization is reduced to almost zero. In addition, a strong bend can provoke adhesions of the fallopian tubes, often leading to female infertility.
Twisted uterus can cause tubal adhesions, often leading to infertility
How to be with the bend of the uterus
With the bend of the uterus and adhesions, you need to find out the cause of these deviations. In addition, cure inflammatory processes and get rid of adhesions: physiotherapy, mud therapy, gynecological massage, etc. as prescribed by a gynecologist. In order for the required amount of sperm to still get to its destination, you need:
- complete sexual intercourse with a knee-elbow position, which allows the cervix to move to the center and thereby facilitates the penetration of spermatozoa inside;
- after sex, take the “birch” position for 10-15 minutes, then lie down for about 10 minutes on your stomach.
The birch pose will help sperm enter the uterus
Is it possible to get pregnant with a small amount of sperm
In order for conception to occur, you must:
- one healthy spermatozoon, which will fertilize the egg, and other spermatozoa, which will dissolve the membrane of the female germ cell;
- to get good quality sperm into the vagina. The quantitative indicator is important, but not paramount;
- a certain microflora of the vagina, which makes it possible to facilitate the passage of sperm with an alkaline environment through the female acid into the uterus. The liquefaction of cervical mucus secreted from the cervix during ovulation plays an important role in this. It is she who helps the spermatozoa to freely enter the uterus.
With the concomitant factors described above, you can get pregnant even with a slight ingestion of sperm into the vagina. So, when ejaculation does not occur directly in the vagina, a small amount of spermatozoa can enter the woman's body with mucus (Cooper's fluid), which neutralizes the acidity of the man's urethra, creating favorable conditions for the passage of the seed. With the same success it is possible to become pregnant after the introduction of the penis into the vagina after ejaculation, since some semen may remain in the urethra after the previous ejaculation.
When the uterus is bent, without reducing the importance of the qualitative indicator of sperm, the value of the quantitative index increases. This is due to the fact that the anatomical features of the structure create barriers to the advancement of the ejaculate into the uterus.
Fertilization requires one of the approximately 20 million quality sperm contained in approximately 4-6 ml of semen produced during one sexual intercourse. At the same time, one should not neglect the indicators of a woman’s readiness for conception: the day of the monthly cycle, the microflora of the vagina, physiological characteristics, as well as the general health of both partners. If all the accompanying conditions coincide, then pregnancy can also occur when a small amount of sperm enters the female body.
It would seem that there are no difficulties in conceiving a child. To do this, you need only two people of different sexes and sexual contact between them. But it looks like everything seems so easy and simple, and few people think about what happens in a woman's body after ejaculation.
The path to fertilization
Ejaculation is the starting point for sperm on the way to conception. It is from her that approximately 400 million male cells, programmed to fertilize the egg, begin their difficult journey. The path length is only 10 cm, but for a microscopic spermatozoon, the size of which is 0.0055 cm (55 microns), this distance is huge, as for a person 6500 km. Not all of them will reach the finish line, as many will immediately flow out of the vagina to the outside, and the predominant part will begin the journey through many obstacles. The main path consists of 5 points:
- Aggressive environment of the vagina. During ejaculation, a huge amount of sperm is injected into the woman's vagina. Without starting its journey, up to 80% of the seed units die here due to the increased acidity of the environment and its bactericidal qualities.
- Protective properties of cervical mucus of the cervix. After passing the global screening into the vagina, the remaining 20% enter the uterus and pass through the protective barrier of the cervical secret. It contains bactericidal substances (antibodies to microorganisms and sperm, lysozyme, class A, M and G immunoglobulin, lactoferrin). Here, the weak part of the spermatozoa does not withstand the effects of the environment and dies, the remaining live ones move to the uterus.
- Zone of accumulation of forces. The environment of the uterus is very favorable for spermatozoa. In it, they can maintain their viability and mobility for up to 3 days. A complex of physiological transformations (capacitation) also takes place here - male germ cells are activated, and at the same time their mobility and penetrating ability increase significantly before the last stage.
- Movement against the current. The gums usually reach the fallopian tubes within 10 minutes after ejaculation. Now their number is about 2 thousand units. At this stage, it is decided which of the strongest will be the winner. Barely entering the fallopian tube, part of the sperm arranges a "halt" in the wall of the tube, lazily waiting for the egg, and the rest, against all odds, continue to move towards their goal. On the way, they constantly have waves of muscle contractions directed against their movement. In addition, small gums get entangled in the villi of the pipe and get lost in the bends.
- Finish. An egg moving along the fallopian tube releases a certain chemical substance, at the call of which the spermatozoa flock like moths to the light. In certain places on the body of the sperm are the smallest molecules that react to the chemical signal of the egg. When she approaches, chemotaxis occurs and one of the strongest fertilizes her.
What is sperm?
Sperm (ejaculate) is a viscous fluid produced by the male reproductive organs. It includes the secret of the prostate gland, spermatozoa, leukocytes, epithelial cells, fatty inclusions, lecithin elements, etc. Therefore, those who think that sperm and sperm are synonymous words are deeply mistaken. For pregnancy, it is not the volume of sperm that matters, but the number of spermatozoa per 1 cm 3 of seminal fluid.
How much ejaculate do you need?
It only takes one egg and one sperm to conceive. But the whole difficulty lies in reaching the destination of the spermatozoa. To break through all the obstacles, the number of tadpoles must have certain values.
Scientists have proven that the average concentration of spermatozoa in 1 ml of semen lies in the range of 20–120 million. If the concentration is less than 20 million / ml, then problems may arise with fertilization. The average volume of ejaculate per sexual intercourse is 3–5 ml, which is an average of 400 million spermatozoa, of which only half, or even a third, will remain in the woman's body.
From this point of view, the question of how much sperm is needed to get pregnant can be answered like this - the more sperm, the higher the chance. But not only seminal fluid takes part in conception. This still requires a certain day of the woman's cycle, in which the egg leaves the dominant follicle and enters the tubes towards the spermatozoa. If ovulation has not occurred, then even liters of healthy sperm will not be able to do anything.
The lifespan of a spermatozoon
The life span of spermatozoa should be analyzed based on the environment in which they are located and the health status of the male or female body. If we take the average indicators, we get the following:
- It takes 72 days for spermatozoa to fully mature.
- The life span of mature spermatozoa in a man's body is 25-30 days.
- In the vagina of a woman, live gum live for about 2 hours.
- Life expectancy in the uterine cavity reaches 7 days.
sperm quality
Healthy spermatozoa have progressive motility and clearly move in a straight line, while livestock with low mobility swim in circles without moving. The quality of sperm is greatly influenced by alcohol intake, smoking, drugs, diseases of the reproductive system.
To determine the quality of seminal fluid, it is necessary to make a spermogram and pass the necessary tests. Normally, the results should have the following indicators:
- The volume of seed material should be 2-5 ml. Less quantity (<2 мл) может указывать на нарушение в работе половой функции.
- Color - white-gray or dull white. An admixture of red and yellow tint indicates the presence of problems.
- According to WHO, acidity should have a pH of 7.2–7.7. Anything below or above these limits is an indicator of the development of inflammation in the sex glands. However, the acidity of sperm in the vast majority of men, as far as practice shows, is pH 7.7–8.0.
- The liquefaction of the ejaculate, that is, the period of time during which the sperm becomes thinner, should fit in 60 minutes, no more. If the ejaculate does not become liquid during this period, it means that it will not liquefy at all.
- Viscosity is checked with a pipette or stick. To do this, they touch the sperm and lift it. The elongation of the resulting drop is determined from the material flowing from the stick. Its value should be no more than 0.5 cm. A thread larger than 0.5 cm indicates chronic diseases, less indicates excessive viscosity, which interferes with sperm motility.
- Quantitative indicators. Normally, the seminal fluid should contain 20-120 million per 1 ml of sperm. The number above and below the limits indicates the inefficiency and malfunction of the reproductive system.
- Mobility. According to mobility, 4 groups are distinguished: progressively actively mobile (group A) and progressively slightly mobile (group B) with rectilinear movement, non-progressively mobile with oscillatory or circular movements (group C) and motionless (group D). Normally, for successful conception, semen should contain 25% of group A spermatozoa and 25% of group B.
- Morphology assessment. There are two types of tests: a WHO standard study and a strict Kruger assessment. This indicator indicates the number of normal unchanged spermatozoa and gives a complete assessment of male fertility. Normal units should be more than 20%.
- Determination of the presence of antisperm antibodies (ASAT). A sign of the presence of ASAT in the sperm is the gluing of seeds by the same parts of the body into a kind of rosette. In the study, ASAT should not be detected.
- Leukocytes. Normally, under microscopic examination, 4–5 cells should fall into the field of view. According to the spermogram, leukocytes should be no more than 1 million per 1 ml of semen.
- Erythrocytes. They shouldn't be in the semen.
- A small amount of mucus is allowed. Large volumes of mucus indicate inflammation in the accessory sex glands.
Conception is a complex process that can take a lot of time and effort from both partners. Of course, the main responsibility for fertilization lies with the woman, but the man does not stand aside either, he provides the genetic seed material. That is why it is very important for them to monitor their sexual health, because the success of fertilization also depends on it.
Are you waiting for a positive pregnancy test result?! Then the following expert advice will help you get pregnant very quickly if it doesn’t work out.
If you have made a clear decision to start a family, you most likely want to do it quickly, right?! If this is about you, then start planning right now. Because getting pregnant quickly means not only having sex at the “right” time, but also creating such a favorable environment in which a healthy embryo will grow into a healthy child after the sperm meets the egg. So what should you do to get pregnant? Here is a step by step guide on how to get pregnant faster.
If you are interested in how to increase your chances of getting pregnant, then start taking care of yourself. It's no secret that during pregnancy and childbirth, a woman's body goes through major changes and trials, so be sure to start your journey with important steps towards a healthy lifestyle. Here are some simple tips regarding a healthy lifestyle, following which it will be much easier to get pregnant faster.
Go to the gynecologist and dentist
The gynecologist (midwife) will analyze your general health and advise you on the necessary lifestyle changes to get pregnant faster. Do not forget to mention cases of infertility that have taken place in the family, as some problems with the reproductive system of a woman can be hereditary. It is also recommended to consult a dentist if there are any problems with the gums and teeth, which are one of the causes of prematurity and poor weight gain of the baby. Before you become pregnant, be sure to tidy up the oral cavity and observe the necessary hygiene daily.
exercise
Various kinds of exercises should become a habit, as you need to prepare the body for pregnancy. Even short walks in the fresh air will help stabilize the work of the heart and improve health. Be careful not to overdo it: studies have shown that excessive exercise and training to the point of exhaustion can cause menstrual irregularities and lead to infertility.
Start taking prenatal vitamins
It's never too late to start taking prenatal vitamins. In addition to various vitamins and minerals, they contain folic acid, which is important for a child at all stages of his development. According to scientist, doctor and nutritionist at Harvard Medical School Audrey Gaskins, folic acid prolongs ovulation, helps fertilization and promotes the survival of the embryo in the early stages of pregnancy. Talk to your gynecologist about which vitamin complex is better to choose. Folic acid is found in large quantities in strawberries, spinach, orange juice, and beans.
Do not smoke
Smoking reduces the chances of getting pregnant quickly. It is associated with a high risk of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. “Smokers have significantly reduced levels of estrogen, which can reduce the chance of ovulation in the cycle and potentially affect the continuation of a pregnancy,” says Gaskins. This habit should also be eradicated by a partner, as smoking negatively affects the number of spermatozoa and sperm quality.
Monitor your caffeine intake
Don't cut out caffeine altogether, just cut back to 1-2 cups (250 ml) per day. Too much caffeine can lead to reproductive problems.
Reduce the amount of alcohol you drink
Although a small glass of wine will not affect fertility in general, it is best not to drink alcoholic beverages while you are trying to conceive. There is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, and until you get pregnant, it's best to avoid it altogether.
Do not get carried away with fast food and sweets
Eat right, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A healthy diet increases the level of progesterone - a key hormone in maintaining pregnancy, supports the process of ovulation and the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterine wall.
Step 2: Stop Birth Control
Probably about it is obvious why you need to stop birth control and stop using a method that helped you not get pregnant. It is also worth noting that depending on the method that you used for these purposes, how quickly the reproductive function will be restored and how easy it will be to get pregnant will depend. If you have used condoms, then the chance of getting pregnant will increase significantly if you forget about them on the bedside table this time. It is the same with the IUD: after removing the coil, the body will be ready for pregnancy immediately. With hormonal contraceptives, the situation is a little more complicated: after stopping the intake, the body will take some time to return to normal.
« If a woman has been taking oral contraceptives for a long time, then after stopping the medication, there may be disruptions in the menstrual cycle. Menstruation may be absent in principle or be scanty, repeated several times a month, etc. - says Eric D. Levens, MD, a certified specialist in reproductive endocrinology at the Shady Grove Clinic. As a rule, after six to eight weeks, the cycle should be restored almost completely. If after 8-10 weeks there are still cycle failures, it is wise to seek the help of a doctor to find out what is happening.
Step 3: Track Your Ovulation
Ovulation is the period of the highest fertility of a woman, so knowing when this period occurs is extremely important in order to quickly get pregnant at home. Precisely determining this moment can sometimes be difficult, but there are several proven ways to track ovulation.
Find out when you ovulate
You need to know the essence of ovulation, understand how it works, in order to further track its symptoms and signs. The first misconception about this is that ovulation occurs on the 14th day from the beginning of the critical days, this is partly true, but if the cycle is constant and lasts 28 days. Every woman has a different cycle. “On average, a cycle can last 24 to 35 days, and it can start 3-4 days later than usual,” says Levens. Depending on the length of the cycle, ovulation may occur 11-21 days after the first day of the last period (maybe earlier or later if the cycle is very short or too long). The timing of ovulation depends on the woman's unique cycle, and for all healthy women, the critical days begin 12-14 days after ovulation.
Use the ovulation calculator
Just as you write down all the important things and plans in your diary or calendar, you should do the same with ovulation, because pregnancy is a very important goal. The ovulation or fertility calculator will determine the length of the cycle and help you determine the very days when the chances of getting pregnant are very high. Just record the first day of your cycle (the start of your period) for several months. Over time, you will begin to notice patterns in when your cycle should start and therefore when you ovulate. The highest chance of conceiving a child is before ovulation and 24 hours after it.
Know the symptoms of ovulation
One of the easiest ways to get pregnant is to listen to your body and know the symptoms of ovulation. You may have one or two, or even more of the following symptoms:
- Small spotting
- Colorless, viscous cervical mucus
- Increased libido
- Sensitivity and soreness of the chest
- Heightened vision, sense of taste and smell
- Bloating
- Change in the position and firmness of the cervix (it becomes softer, taller and more open)
- A sharp and stable increase in basal body temperature
Increase your chances of a "miracle" with an ovulation test
Knowing the symptoms ovulation, you can learn more about your cycle. By the time you finally understand all this, most likely, you will already become pregnant. If not, then ovulation tests can help. They are sold without a doctor's prescription in small kits. One set includes several test strips, the task of which is to track the moment of ovulation by measuring the level of luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is produced by the pituitary gland and is well monitored in the urine. The body produces this hormone all the time, but in the 24-48 hours before ovulation, a lot of it is produced.
To get the most accurate result, follow the instructions on the package. The test should be done at the same time every day for several days, and do not drink or urinate two hours before. Next, you need to place the test strip in the collected portion of urine, and then view the results on a digital monitor or on the strips. A certain color or sign will appear, signaling a high level of LH. This means that ovulation is coming soon, it's time to get down to business. These tests are very convenient, but not 100 percent accurate because they only check one ovulation indicator. Some health problems can interfere with test results and show a false positive result (polycystic ovary syndrome or luteinizing neovulating follicle syndrome), and certain drugs containing estrogens and progesterones (birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy) can lower LH levels.
Track your basal temperature
Tracking your basal body temperature (BBT) is another way to find out when you're ovulating. When there is no ovulation, normalthe temperature is between 35.6 and 37.2 degrees Celsius. It is necessary to measure BBT throughout the entire cycle, and during ovulation it can be half a degree higher. A special thermometer is used to measure BBT. You need to measure the temperature every morning without getting out of bed. Draw a graph where the y-axis is BBT and the x-axis is cycle days.Record your BTT on a chart for several months. When BBT is slightly higher than usual for several days, it should be concluded that ovulation has occurred.This method takes a lot of time, but it helps to get to know each other better.with your body and create an overall picture of your fertility. If you understand your BBT schedule, then you can safely proceed to conception.a few days before the highest BBT values.
Step 4: Have sex in moderation and properly
When you're trying to conceive, it's likely that you spend every spare moment you have in bed with your partner. But remember, everything is good in moderation. Experts believe that the best way to get pregnant quickly is to have sex once a day or every other day, during the favorable days before and after ovulation. If you have sex too often, your partner's sperm count may be reduced, and if you have sex too infrequently, the sperm stagnates and the sperm don't move as fast. If you want to conceive a child quickly, do not do the following:
Do not use lubricant
With it, of course, it is more convenient, but some types of lubricant can kill sperm before they reach the egg. So read the labels and choose the best, or try canola oil. You can increase the prelude to stimulate the production of natural lubrication.
Don't shower after sex
Your chances of getting pregnant are lower if you shower immediately after sex. Moreover, there is a possibility of developing pelvic infections. You should also avoid long runs, saunas, hot tubs, or any other activity that raises body temperature immediately after sex.
Position during sex does not matter
Researchers did not find any specific position in sex that contributes to the rapid conception of a child, which means that you can have sex in absolutely any position. “The position you prefer in sex will not prevent you from getting pregnant and will not cause infertility,” says Rachel Gurevich, fertility expert and co-author of the book “ Planning a Pregnancy: A Guide for Dummies". Therefore, do not be afraid to experiment and look for that very favorite position in sex that you and your partner like. “When choosing a position, there are only a few things to keep in mind: the position is comfortable for both of you, brings a lot of emotions from the meeting, and most importantly, orgasm,” says Robin Elise Weiss, Ph.D., certified doula. After sex, you can help the sperm to stay inside you, just lie on your back, bend your knees and pull them to your chest.
How long does it take to conceive a child?
Most healthy couples who have frequent and unprotected sex get pregnant within a year. 38 percent of couples conceive within a month, 68 percent achieve results in 3 months, 81 percent within six months, and 92 percent after a year. In some cases, you have to seek help from specialists to get pregnant.
If you are 30 years old or younger, you and your partner are both healthy, then it is possible to get pregnant quickly just by actively having sex, and without the help of a gynecologist and reproductive specialists, without using contraceptives by yourself. In the end, it is important to remember that even at the peak of ovulation, the chances of getting pregnant in any given month are only 1 in 5.
The reproductive function of a woman decreases with age, so if you are over 35, then you need to seek help after half a year of unsuccessful attempts. The sooner you visit the doctor, the sooner you will get pregnant. Some causes of infertility worsen over time. If you sit back, then the chance that fertility treatment will help will only decrease over time.
The main thing is not to blame yourself for the fact that you cannot get pregnant yet. Infertility has been a common occurrence lately, with 1 in 8 couples having trouble conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy, according to research from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And don't jump to the conclusion that you are the source of the "problem". Problems with conception can be not only because of a woman, but also because of a man, and even because of several factors at the same time. What to do if it doesn't work for a long time? If you're having a hard time, reach out to a loved one for support. Join a group of like-minded people, discuss your problems with them, share experiences and emotions, ask for advice and don't be afraid to be open. It’s not enough just to want, you need to act.
