Myths and Facts About the Benefits of Male Semen for Women's Health

I once worked with a 35-year-old woman who was eagerly planning her first pregnancy. Her fertility charts were promising—regular ovulations, a well-functioning corpus luteum, and healthy cervical mucus during ovulation. Yet, despite everything looking perfect, conception remained elusive.

After medical examinations, the truth was revealed: tubal blockage caused by scarring from past sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This heartbreaking realization stemmed from her youth, when she believed the myth that male semen was essential for her health and fostering open intimacy. Unfortunately, her choices left lasting scars, leading to infertility.

It raises an important question: Is semen truly beneficial for women's health, or is this just another myth?

Semen typically consists of about 1–5% sperm and 95–99% fluid. The fluid comprises approximately 70-85% from the epididymis, roughly 25-30% from the prostate gland, and 1% from the seminal vesicles.

Additionally, it contains fructose, vitamins, enzymes, antioxidants, and other substances that create optimal conditions for sperm maintenance and movement.

Semen also contains hormones like prostaglandins and estrogens, which can stimulate ovulation, develop corpus luteum and create local immunity in the vagina.

These components play specific roles:

• Stimulating ovulation and supporting the corpus luteum.

• Promoting local immunity in the vagina.

• Assisting the uterus in clearing menstrual blood.

Studies suggest that this phenomenon is a vital component of priming the female body for potential conception, facilitating an adaptation to the foreign genetic composition of the prospective offspring.

However, while semen has a defined biological role, it’s not a magical health elixir or a source of superpowers as some myths might suggest.

On the other end of the spectrum, I’ve met couples who avoid semen altogether, using barrier contraception for years out of fear. But is this fear really justified, or are we holding onto misconceptions? While semen has a role in reproduction, the risks associated with unprotected intercourse—like STIs—far outweigh any perceived benefits of exposure.

The takeaway is this: open, informed conversations about sexual health and fertility are essential.

Engaging in intimacy without fear of pregnancy is possible when you trust your partner and understand your fertility biomarkers. By using methods like natural contraception, you can enjoy a safe and highly effective way to manage your reproductive health.

If you’re curious to learn more, subscribe to blog updates to explore how to align intimacy with health and safety.

What myths about semen and its properties have you encountered? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your perspective!