Semen is just a "vehicle" to transport sperm. Not only that, semen also helps nourish and create favorable conditions for sperm to contact the egg. Semen is composed of many different components and factors, including pH. This number is too high or too low also indicates abnormality of semen and is not favorable for pregnancy.
1. What is the pH in semen?
pH stands for "power of hydrogen" and is used as a scale to measure the level of acidity or alkalinity of a solution, ranging from 0 to 14. If the solution has a pH of 7, it is neutral, above 7 indicates an alkaline nature, and below 7 indicates acidity. Therefore, as the pH decreases, the acidity increases, and vice versa.
Why is the pH in semen important? The reason is due to the environment within the vagina. Under normal conditions, the vaginal pH helps maintain a balance between good and harmful bacteria, preventing infections. However, to protect against harmful bacteria and ensure a healthy balance, the vaginal environment tends to be slightly acidic. Still, the vaginal pH fluctuates regularly, depending on the time in the cycle, sexual activities, and even diet and exercise habits of the woman.
Thus, for sperm to survive in the female reproductive system, semen must have a higher pH than vaginal fluid. Consequently, the pH of semen is slightly alkaline to neutralize the vaginal acidity. This mechanism of semen helps protect the sperm so they can survive until they meet the egg.
2. How is the pH of semen tested?
The pH of semen can easily be determined by basic tests using automated machines or by laboratory technicians using pH test paper. The color change of the paper compared to a standard color chart will indicate the pH of the sample.
In addition to determining pH, semen analysis also provides information on sperm concentration, morphology, and motility. This test provides all the essential parameters to assess the natural fertility of sperm.
3. What is the normal pH value of semen?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the average pH of semen should be between 7.2 and 8. This is the ideal environment for sperm protection.
If your semen has a pH below 7, meaning it is acidic, it will reduce your chances of conception and could indicate a blockage in the seminal vesicles.
Conversely, if your semen has a pH above 8, meaning it is alkaline, it can weaken sperm motility and may also indicate an infection.
4. How to maintain the ideal pH in semen?
- Building a balanced diet: Avoid skipping meals or consuming unnecessary snacks. Instead, it is important to maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy nutrition;
- Physical exercise: Regular physical activity not only helps muscles stay flexible but also boosts metabolism and blood circulation to organs, including male reproductive organs;
- Avoid exposure to toxins: Exposure to harmful chemicals, including smoking and alcohol consumption, can increase the acidity of semen. Men should minimize frequent contact with these harmful chemicals;
- Reduce stress: Stress causes the body to release hormones to combat anxiety and tension in the nervous and cardiovascular systems, among other organs. This leads to metabolic slowdowns, increased acid buildup, and negatively impacts sperm quality.
In summary, abnormalities in sperm can sometimes unintentionally act as factors hindering conception. Among these, the pH level in semen is highly sensitive to changes in the external environment or within your body. Understanding these issues can help you adjust your lifestyle in time to protect sperm health and achieve marital happiness.
Vinmec International General Hospital offers semen analysis as part of the basic and advanced pre-marital checkup packages. These tests help men accurately evaluate sperm health in various aspects (including the pH of semen) and provide counseling for couples to have healthy children.
For detailed advice on semen analysis in the pre-marital checkup packages at Vinmec, please contact hospitals and clinics in the Vinmec Healthcare System nationwide.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
References: nih.gov; webmd.com
