How to Produce More Semen: Sperm Health and Male Fertility Explained

What does weak ejaculation mean?

As males age, semen volume and strength of ejaculation can decrease, causing weak ejaculation.

There are different things that can lead to weak ejaculation. Weakened pelvic muscles can decrease the force of ejaculation. Low testosterone levels may also be at fault. Declining levels of testosterone or an issue with testosterone production in the testicles can also occur with age. It’s also possible to have blockages in the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles or in the penis, which can prevent all of the semen from being ejaculated during orgasm.

There’s also an ejaculatory dysfunction condition called retrograde ejaculation, which is when some or all of the semen travels back towards the bladder instead of being released out of the penis. Medical problems like uncontrolled diabetes or nerve diseases can cause retrograde ejaculation.

Infections like gonorrhea, when not well-treated, can inhibit sperm production or health, which can lead to scarring that blocks sperm from passing. 

Lastly, certain medications, like those to treat an enlarged prostate gland, high blood pressure, and depression, or health conditions such as diabetes, can cause ejaculatory issues.

If someone notices a big change in their ejaculation volume, it’s worth their time to see a health care provider. Some ejaculatory problems can be reversed, but others are permanent.

What is healthy seminal fluid?

Male fertility is intricately linked to sperm health and seminal fluid. Seminal fluid is made up of sperm and other nutrients that keep the sperm healthy, including fructose. There are several factors that determine semen quality and the ability to conceive a child: sperm amount and concentration, motility (movement), and shape.

Healthy semen has between 15 million to over 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Having 40 percent or more of sperm that are able to move is a good indicator of fertility. Lastly, normal sperm has an oval head and a long tail, which propel them forward to reach the egg.

Male infertility can be due to a variety of factors, including low sperm production, abnormal sperm motility or shape, or blockages that stop sperm from entering the vagina. Lifestyle choices, illnesses, injuries, and chronic health issues, among other things, can contribute to fertility issues.

Age is another important piece of the puzzle. A large population-based study in the U.K. by Ford and colleagues published in the Human Reproduction journal found that, after accounting for female age, males over 40 are 30 percent less likely to conceive a child within one year compared to males under 30. 

How to increase sperm count

There are some key lifestyle changes that can improve fertility naturally for anyone, regardless of gender. There are also some ways to improve the quality of seminal fluid, increase sperm count, and promote sperm health.

Diet, weight, and exercise are also important for sperm health and fertility. This means eating five or more portions of fruits and veggies per day, getting enough protein through beans, fish, eggs, meat, some dairy or dairy alternatives (like soy), and eating foods high in fiber like baked potatoes, bread, rice, or pasta.

Kegel exercises are good for everyone. They can improve sexual and reproductive function by strengthening pelvic floor muscles.

To improve the quality of seminal fluid, it’s important to avoid increasing the temperature of the testicles, which means not using saunas or hot tubs often, as high temperatures can temporarily harm sperm production and function.

There are also some supplements and vitamins to increase sperm quality. The Mayo Clinic notes that Nigella Sative seeds, folic acid, horse chestnut, L-carnitine, Panax ginseng, Coenzyme Q10, and zinc have shown potential benefits in improving sperm quality or count. Speaking with a health care provider before taking any dietary supplements is recommended.

How to check sperm quality

The testicles are constantly producing new sperm, which take anywhere from 42 to 76 days to reach maturity. Doctors can test sperm quality with a semen analysis. To perform the analysis, a sample is needed. This can be produced by masturbating and ejaculating into a container at the doctor’s office.  

To help ensure accuracy of the test, the doctor will likely advise: 

• Ensuring all of the semen reaches the collection cup
• Not ejaculating for two to seven days before collecting the sample
• Doing a second sample at least two weeks later
• Avoiding lubricants

Other tests are also available to find the cause of semen problems and male infertility, such as ultrasound, hormone tests, urine analysis, genetic tests, testicular biopsy, and more. 

Conclusion

If you and your partner are trying to get pregnant but struggling, it’s a good idea to see a health care provider. Thankfully, there are options for improving semen volume and quality. There are also medical treatments available for male fertility.