Semen clotting is a medical condition related to male reproductive health, though it does not pose a life-threatening danger, semen clotting negatively affects reproductive life and the ability of sperm to fertilize.
1. What is semen clotting?
Semen is a thick, gelatinous fluid containing sperm produced by the male testes for fertilization. Semen clotting, or sperm coagulation, refers to a condition where the semen ejaculated during sexual intercourse forms clumps. Some types of semen clotting include:
- Jelly-like or solidified semen
- Yellow semen
- Brown semen
- Semen resembling grains of rice
Normal semen is usually cloudy white, resembling rice water, or slightly yellowish, and liquefies within 15-20 minutes after ejaculation. However, clotted semen forms small white clumps with tiny, fine particles resembling rice bran. Additionally, clotted semen may sometimes be dark yellow, brown, or red. The smell of clotted semen is also different from normal semen, often foul or fishy, causing discomfort. The semen may also be stringy, and men may experience urinary urgency or difficulty urinating. The severity and manifestations of semen clotting vary depending on the individual's condition and the underlying cause. Therefore, if you experience any of these abnormal symptoms, you should consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
2. The causes of semen clotting
The causes of semen clotting can be explained by the following mechanism: the male reproductive organs, such as the prostate gland and bulbourethral glands, normally secrete a certain degree of viscosity in semen. If these organs become infected, the components of semen, including sperm, white blood cells, and epithelial cells, can clump together, leading to semen clotting. Some common causes of semen clotting in men include:
Prolonged sexual abstinence
Due to the prolonged retention of semen without ejaculation, it accumulates inside the reproductive tract, forming clumps or small lumps, leading to semen clotting. This condition is commonly observed in individuals experiencing their first ejaculation and often resolves spontaneously after several consecutive ejaculations.
Psychological distress
Prolonged fatigue, stress, and pressure from work and life can lead to semen clotting. In such cases, maintaining a relaxed and stable state of mind can help alleviate this condition.
Changes in the seminal environment
Unscientific, irregular, and unhealthy lifestyle habits can cause the male testicles to overheat, altering the seminal environment. This leads to the components of semen combining to form small particles, resulting in semen clotting.
Urological diseases
Certain urological diseases such as prostatitis, epididymitis, and vas deferens inflammation can cause semen clotting. When sperm passes through these organs, it may die, and the dead sperm can accumulate, leading to chemical reactions and ultimately the formation of small clumps.
Masturbating too frequently
Infrequent sexual intercourse or excessive masturbation can result in semen clotting.
3. What to do about semen coagulation?
Although semen coagulation doesn't pose a direct health risk, it can lead to infertility or difficulties conceiving in men. This is because many sperm become trapped in the clots and die before ejaculation, hindering fertilization which causes infertility.
If you notice signs of semen clotting, it's important to visit a reputable healthcare provider for a thorough examination and appropriate tests. This will help diagnose the underlying cause accurately. Once the cause is identified, your doctor can recommend suitable treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, medication to treat infections, supplements, exercise, a healthy diet, and specific exercises to improve semen quality.
Men over 30 should pay particular attention to semen coagulation, as testosterone levels decline by 1-2% annually after this age, which can lead to reduced sexual desire, various reproductive health issues like weak or abnormal sperm, and erectile dysfunction. Regular monitoring of reproductive health is crucial to detect any abnormalities early.
Semen coagulation, while not affecting overall health or sexual function, can lead to infertility in men. Therefore, if you notice any unusual symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Men experiencing clumping semen can go to Vinmec International General Hospital for examination, diagnosis and treatment. The team of orthopedic doctors at Vinmec are all well-trained and experienced in examining, treating as well as early detection of health problems related to the male genital organs, reproductive diseases. management, reproductive function and sexually transmitted diseases. A civilized, modern hospital space that fully respects the privacy of customers will bring the most comfortable feeling for gentlemen when visiting and receiving treatment at Vinmec.
For detailed advice on male genital pathologies, you can go directly to Vinmec medical system or book an online examination HERE.
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