Semen News and Research

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Semen is an organic fluid, also known as seminal fluid, that usually contains spermatozoa. It is secreted by the gonads (sexual glands) and other sexual organs of male or hermaphroditic animals and can fertilize female ova. The process of discharge is called ejaculation.

Innovations and challenges in global contraception and family planning

Contraception and family planning are vital aspects of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Despite major advances in modern contraception over the past 60 years, many gaps remain and the rate of unplanned pregnancies and abortions remains high.

31 Oct 2025

What happens when microplastics reach the testes? Study shows autophagy and cell loss

Researchers found that microplastics from everyday plastic tableware accumulate in human semen and, although not linked to semen quality in the full cohort, were associated with altered sperm parameters in specific subgroups. Experimental models confirmed that 50 nm polystyrene particles trigger autophagy and apoptosis via the FOXA1/MAP3K1/p38 pathway, impairing sperm structure and function.

15 Oct 2025

Lifestyle choices and hormonal imbalances can impact men's reproductive health

A new research paper was published in Volume 12 of Oncoscience on September 30, 2025, titled "Lifestyle and hormonal factors affecting semen quality and sperm DNA integrity: A cross-sectional study."

10 Oct 2025

Research shows Sudan Ebola's lasting impact and potential for mother-to-child transmission

More than half of survivors of the Sudan Ebola virus still suffer serious health problems two years post-infection and the virus can persist in semen and breast milk for months after recovery, according to the first study examining the virus's long-term effects.

3 Oct 2025

Clinical trial disproves claims that antioxidant supplement boosts male fertility

A large Dutch randomized clinical trial (SUMMER) found that a widely marketed antioxidant supplement (Impryl) did not improve ongoing pregnancy rates in men seeking fertility care. Instead, pregnancy success was significantly lower in the critical 4–6 month treatment window, raising safety concerns.

28 Sep 2025

Organophosphate pesticide exposure linked to reduced sperm quality in healthy men

This pilot study found that urinary metabolites of organophosphate pesticides were linked to reduced sperm motility in healthy young men, though results were preliminary. Oxidative stress did not explain the association, suggesting other biological pathways may be involved.

25 Sep 2025

RFK Jr.’s vaccine panel expected to recommend delaying hepatitis B shot for children

A key federal vaccine advisory panel whose members were recently replaced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to vote to recommend delaying until age 4 the hepatitis B vaccine that's currently given to newborns, according to two former senior Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials.

16 Sep 2025

Ultra-processed foods affect sperm quality and metabolism even without extra calories

A controlled crossover trial in Cell Metabolism found that ultra-processed foods increase weight, fat mass, LDL:HDL cholesterol, and alter reproductive hormones in men, with some effects independent of calorie load. These diets also showed trends toward reduced sperm motility, shifts in pollutants, and transient inflammatory responses, highlighting risks beyond excess calories.

31 Aug 2025

Sperm RNA profiles could identify the best embryos for IVF

Findings on sperm RNA suggest new biomarkers for IVF success, potentially improving embryo selection and reducing cycles needed for desired fertility outcomes.

21 Jul 2025

Unlocking bacterial genomes to develop tailored probiotic therapies

Probiotics are emerging tools used by neonatal intensive care units to promote healthy outcomes and prevent intestinal diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis.

16 Jul 2025

Blood sugar levels found to impact sexual health in aging men

Metabolic health factors, including small increases in blood sugar, are the main drivers of change in the reproductive systems and sexual functioning of aging men, according to a study being presented Saturday at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in San Francisco, Calif.

12 Jul 2025

Vaping versus smoking’s impact on male fertility

A new study found that male E-cigarette users undergoing IVF had higher sperm motility and lower miscarriage rates compared to conventional smokers. However, E-cigarettes were not shown to be safe and further research is needed before recommending them for fertility.

6 Jul 2025

Study finds widespread microplastics in reproductive fluids, what it means for fertility

Microplastics have been detected in human reproductive fluids, with researchers finding them in 69% of female and 55% of male samples, raising concerns about potential effects on fertility. Although causality remains unproven, the findings prompt calls for reducing plastic exposure.

1 Jul 2025

Mediterranean diet boosts sperm health while ultra-processed foods lower fertility, study finds

Adherence to the Mediterranean diet is linked to improved sperm parameters in men, while high intake of ultra-processed foods is associated with poorer semen quality. These associations are strongest in men with normal FSH levels, suggesting dietary patterns may influence male fertility.

23 Jun 2025

Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs transform the landscape of liquid biopsy

A new review highlights the transformative potential of transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) in the field of liquid biopsy, emphasizing their role as promising biomarkers for a wide range of diseases, particularly cancers.

20 Jun 2025

Cutting back on sugary drinks may protect men’s fertility, review finds

Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with lower sperm count, motility, and increased DNA damage, potentially impairing male reproductive health. This narrative review highlights dose-response effects, mechanisms, and research gaps, calling for further studies on diverse populations.

22 May 2025

Study reveals phthalate exposure harms early sexual development in children

Maternal exposure to phthalates during pregnancy is linked to shorter anogenital distance in 3-year-old boys, a marker of impaired sexual development. Girls showed similar outcomes from their own postnatal exposure, highlighting the lasting hormonal risks of environmental pollutants.

10 May 2025

Low phosphate levels may help explain male infertility, study finds

Men with fertility problems were significantly more likely to have low blood phosphate levels, a mineral essential for energy and reproductive function. Researchers found lower phosphate was linked to poorer sperm motility, suggesting a possible pathway for new fertility treatments.

10 May 2025

COVID-19 lowers sperm count and motility, new study confirms

SARS-CoV-2 infection is linked to significant declines in sperm quality, including reduced sperm count, motility, and increased DNA fragmentation, as shown in both cross-sectional and longitudinal observations.

24 Apr 2025

Aquablation shows promise for treating enlarged prostate with fewer side effects

Using a high-pressure water jet to operate on an enlarged prostate can better preserve the ability to ejaculate, compared with standard laser surgery, finds research.

22 Mar 2025