Original popular science article: Sperm is "cool"

Editor: Kang Yan Reviewer: Yang Pengbin

(Xu Xian, Bai Meiyan, Wu Yuehua, Wang Jing) Sperm is more "delicate" and extremely sensitive to temperature changes. The optimal temperature is 35.5C to 36.5C. The testicles are the birthplace of sperm, and the "home" of the testicles is the comfortable low-temperature scrotum. A 1-2C rise in scrotal temperature will inhibit sperm production. Continuous high temperatures will cause the microenvironment of sperm production to become disordered, leading to spermatogenesis disorders and reduced sperm density. With the continuation of high-temperature heat exposure, the epididymis is also harmed, gradually losing the function of storing and maintaining mature sperm, and sperm needs to enjoy "cool" climatic conditions throughout their lives. Therefore, men should always cultivate healthy living habits of self-discipline and chastity, maintain a good "temperature automatic regulator", and carefully protect the microecological environment of "snow mountain grassland" - green water and green mountains" in their bodies.

Showering boys - sperm "swimming" mobilization.

Housing for swimming mobilization

Sperm is born in the testicles, which are symmetrical on both sides, weigh about 10 grams, and have a volume of 15 to 25 milliliters. The surface of the testicle is covered with a serosa, and the deep part is a dense connective tissue that forms the white membrane of the "magnificent snow-capped mountain". The white membrane thickens at the posterior edge of the testicle to form the testicular septum, which penetrates deep into the testicular substance and divides it into about 250 conical lobules, like alpine pastures, lakes and forests. Each lobule contains 1 to 4 curved and slender seminiferous tubules, which are like many small tributaries flowing into the sea, gathering many rushing rivers and streams. Here there is the mountain and lake water environment and nutrients needed for sperm growth, and sperm develops from the spermatogenic cells here. The microscopic ecological balance in the seminiferous tubules is the vast grassland where sperms are endless. Since the testicles are the only organ tissue that is free outside the body cavity, the perineum is conducive to protection and heat dissipation. It is also its special physiological "construction" site, ensuring that the sperm's childhood must live in the "Sanjiangyuan" environment that is 2~3℃ below body temperature.

Air conditioning for swimming

Sperm is more "delicate" and extremely sensitive to temperature changes. The optimum temperature is 35.5℃~36.5℃. The testicles are the birthplace of sperm, and the "home" of the testicles is the comfortable low-temperature scrotum. The scrotum is a sac-like structure exposed on the surface of the body below the penis. Its skin is thin and soft, like a "thermostat": when the temperature drops, the scrotal skin shrinks and thickens, bringing the testicles closer to the body and raising the temperature of the environment around the testicles; when the temperature rises, the scrotal skin relaxes and becomes thinner, the testicles sag and leave the body, increasing the heat dissipation and lowering the temperature of the environment around the testicles. A 1~2℃ rise in scrotal temperature will inhibit sperm production. Continuous high temperature causes disorder in the testicular spermatogenesis microenvironment, leading to spermatogenesis disorders and reduced sperm density. With the continuation of high temperature heat exposure, the epididymis is also harmed and gradually loses the function of storing and maintaining mature sperm.

Swimming pool for athletes

It is well known that "women are made of water", but what you have never heard of is that what really cannot be separated from "water" is sperm. Sperm is dependent on water for its entire life. Whether it is growing at home or entering the partner's vagina after ejaculation to start the journey of new life transformation, sperm cannot be separated from water. The partner's vaginal secretions, cervical mucus, intrauterine fluid, fallopian tube fluid and follicular fluid continue to provide sufficient water and energy for the sperm's "travel". If it leaves the nourishment of these water sources, it means that the sperm will die.

High-risk occupations mobilized by " swimming "

If the working environment temperature rises abnormally, it may lead to testicular spermatogenesis dysfunction and decreased semen quality. Some common occupations: drivers, office workers, high-temperature workshop workers, chefs, sauna masters, greenhouse growers, IT workers, underground miners, etc. High temperature environments will reduce sperm survival rate and increase sperm deformity rate. The longer the working years, the more serious the decline in semen quality, leading to an increased incidence of male infertility.

The living habits of " swimming "

Saunas, steam rooms, and hot baths will increase the temperature of the scrotum. When the temperature is above 40°C for a long time, the activity of sperm will be significantly reduced. Poorly breathable clothes, jeans, and tight underwear will interfere with testicular blood circulation, hinder the temperature convection between the perineum and the outside world, and are not conducive to the growth and development of sperm, thus affecting male fertility.

Sperm needs to enjoy "cool" climate conditions throughout their lives. Therefore, men should always cultivate healthy living habits of self-discipline and self-control, maintain a good "thermostat", and carefully protect the micro-ecological environment of "'snow mountain grassland' - green water and green mountains" in their bodies.