What is the Difference Between Semen and Sperm?
When discussing a man’s ejaculate in everyday language, the terms “sperm” and “semen” are often used interchangeably. Even in a male health clinic, you’re as likely to here the words “sperm test” and “semen analysis” used to refer to the same procedure.
However, from a biological and medical standpoint, sperm and semen are two distinct things. In this article, we will define both terms, as this can make things clearer when discussing the results of your sperm test.
What is sperm?
The word “sperm” comes from the Greek “sperma”, which means seed. It is the name given to the male reproductive cell in mammals (including humans). This microscopic cell – also known as a gamete – is shaped somewhat like a tadpole and is invisible to the naked eye. The sperm has one job to do, which is to reach an egg and fertilise it. Since the odds of any single sperm reaching its destination is slim at best, a typical ejaculation can contain as many as 500 million sperm.
Each sperm is made up of three distinct structural components – the head, the midpiece, and the tail – each with its own role in fertilising the egg:
The head: this part of the sperm contains the 23 chromosomes required to make up half of a new human being. The egg that it intends to fertilise contains the other 23. The fertilisation process is effectively the combining of these 46 chromosomes into one living cell.
The midpiece: this part of the sperm is the driving force, being made up a filamentous core, bound with mitochondria to power through the cervix, uterus, and uterine tubes of the female.
The tail: this part of the sperm, also known as the flagellum, acts as a propeller, performing a lashing motion that propels the sperm forwards towards the egg.
What is semen?
Like sperm, the word “semen” has its linguistic roots in a Classical language. The difference is that this time it’s from a Latin root – the word “serere”, which means “to plant”. Semen is the organic fluid that transports the sperm from the penis into the female reproductive tract. Semen – or seminal fluid – us made up of various chemicals needed to sustain the sperm on its journey. This includes amino acids, enzymes, prostaglandins, flavins, citric acid, Vitamin C, proteins, zinc, phosphorylcholine, sialic acid, acid phosphatase, mucus, and prostrate specific antigen.
While the sperm might have the more significant job of fertilising the egg, without the semen to carry it along and provide the nutrients it needs, it would never get to its destination.
If you are in Central London and require a sperm test or semen analysis, book an appointment at The Male Fertility Clinic today. You can view our appointment availability online and book your test for £169; we even offer the option to spread the cost over three instalments with PayPal.