The Sperm Journey

How do sperm travel?

During ejaculation, sperm are propelled from the urethra by peristaltic contractions of the vas deferens. Enzymes from the seminal vesicles coagulates some of the semen to prevent backflow into the bladder- fructose from seminal vesicles serves as an energy source.

The Sperm Journey

Many millions of sperm are deposited near cervix at the time of ejaculation (the acid level of a vagina can kill the sperm and only about 200 reach the fertilization site- most degenerate and are absorbed). The sperm use their flagellum to move through the cervix- cervical mucus becomes less thick at ovulation to allow this to happen. Some sperm are delayed at the cervix, then gradually released into cervical canal. These sperm survive for 48 hours once ejaculated. Please reference the image below: