Hyperspermia: The Rare Condition That May Impact Conception

Symptoms and Treatment (and How Hyperspermia Can Positively Impact Fertility)

Hyperspermia is a condition in which abnormally large volumes of ejaculate are produced, generally after a period of prolonged abstinence. This is a condition that anyone can develop. 

Most people who go through periods of hyperspermia are unaware of the condition. Although long-term hyperspermia is possible, it is generally a short term condition influenced by changes in lifestyle, especially the introduction of steroids or performance enhancing drugs.

What Is Hyperspermia?

The Overlooked Condition Impacting 4% of Men

Hyperspermia is the production of volumes of ejaculate exceeding 5.5 ml. Although the name implies that an increase in sperm production is the root of hyperspermia, sperm production is often unaffected. Instead, it is an increase in the fluids from the prostate and seminal vesicles that contribute to a high volume of ejaculate.

Although there are no lasting health concerns associated with hyperspermia, the condition can cause short periods of fatigue or exhaustion following ejaculation. If this occurs for a prolonged period of time, erection quality and duration can be negatively impacted.

A close up of sperm surrounding the egg.
Does hyperspermia help or hurt your chances at conception?

What Are the Symptoms of Hyperspermia?

Hyperspermia Can Have Environmental Causes

There are no physical changes or health concerns associated with hyperspermia. For some, hyperspermia is correlated with a higher libido, suggesting that diet or other lifestyle factors influence the onset of the condition. Diets high in protein and fiber have been known to increase sex drive and to increase semen production.

The most common concern associated with hyperspermia is a reduction in fertility. Because hyperspermia is often caused by an increase in the fluid content of ejaculate, the dilution of the sperm that occurs reduces the chance of conception. 

For those whose hyperspermia is caused by prolonged periods of abstinence, there is more likely to be an associated decrease in fertility. This is because of the build up of fluids that occurs during abstinence. When ejaculation occurs, a number of dead or unhealthy sperm that have built up may also be released, further reducing the proportion of healthy sperm in the ejaculate.

If the amount of sperm remains proportional to the amount of fluid, hyperspermia might increase the chance of conception--however, it should never be assumed that fertility is unaffected. For those attempting to conceive, it is important to address any conditions that might compromise fertility. 

A man presses his ear to the stomach of a pregnant woman as he smiles.
Hyperspermia doesn’t always reduce fertility--a viable pregnancy can still occur.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Addressing Hyperspermia Concerns

There is no known “cure” for hyperspermia. Occasional bouts of hyperspermia resulting from lifestyle changes can be avoided by reducing changes known to instigate hyperspermia. This includes avoiding steroids, performance enhancing drugs, and diets high in protein and fiber. For those experiencing prolonged hyperspermia, a visit to the urologist should be scheduled.

For those with infertility caused by hyperspermia, intrauterine insemination or split ejaculate therapy may help address these concerns. 

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