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Every individual possesses distinct sexual needs and arousal. Not one person can be a representative of another. Men, however, undergo orgasm and release sperm through ejaculation. Sperms are male reproductive cells, small and compact, able to fertilize the female reproductive cell ovum. In higher vertebrates, like mammals, sperms are produced in seminiferous tubules within each testicle.
Every time a man ejaculates, 100 million sperm are released. Sperm cramp is a condition that affects a considerable amount of the population. Still, it is undercover and mysterious. To unlock some known facts about sperm cramps, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment are explained therein.
A sperm cramp is also called a semen cramp or ejaculatory cramp. In formal terms, a Sperm cramp is a painful sensation or cramp or aches some men feel in the testicles or surrounding area during or after ejaculation. Sperm cramp is not a medical terminology but a slang term describing the above phenomenon. Other names associated with sperm cramps are testicular pain or discomfort.
There could be any underlying reason for the condition, and the cause is not necessarily connected to sperm itself since the topic is still considered taboo and little is known in detail. However, some potential causes are:
One known cause of sperm cramps is testicular torsion. The spermatic cord twisting will seize the blood supply to the testicles. This can result in permanent damage to the testicles, but it may be prevented with immediate medical intervention.
Another potential reason for cramps and pain associated with ejaculation is the condition called varicocele, in which there is an enlargement of veins in the scrotum.
Epididymis is the highly convoluted interconnecting duct behind the testicles, which help in the passage of sperms. The inflammation of the epididymis could be the cause of sperm cramps.
An underlying reproductive tract infection, most probably urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, could be the explanation behind pain and discomfort in sperm cramps.
It is a broad term and a rare occurrence manifested by multiple symptoms, including but not limited to discomfort, pain, aches, and fatigue after ejaculation.
Muscular pain resulting from exaggerated contraction during sexual activity could be the reason for discomfort and pain.
Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) or prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement of the prostate) are the two most probable reasons for sperm cramps.
Moreover, psychological involvement should not be neglected—some psychic-related issues, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, exacerbated sexual intercourse, long-term abstinence, hypochondriac (excessive concern about physical health), sexual performance anxiety, psychological trauma, or hormonal imbalance could be the corresponding reasons.
Common observable symptoms among individuals experiencing sperm cramps are
Sperm cramps are not always a cause of concern, especially when diagnosed on time. Symptoms listed above may or may not be related to sperm cramps, and only proper medical evaluation through tests and the patient’s medical history can guarantee the diagnosis.
Diagnosing sperm cramps begins with assessing the symptoms and medical history and may include other diagnostic tests if necessary. A healthcare provider or doctor may request additional tests to rule out other medical conditions.
Medical history
The doctor may ask for the intensity and severity of the symptoms and any change or modification in lifestyle that may contribute to the onset of cramps or pain. Other medical illnesses, such as diabetes and neurological disorders, may also contribute.
Physical examination
A physical checkup is done to inspect any physical changes in the testicle, scrotum, or surrounding area, such as the size of the genital organ, signs of inflammation, or any other visible signs.
Diagnostic tests
Depending on the severity of the signs and symptoms, a doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests for further evaluation.
A urine test is a good measure of the presence of infection. Blood tests are conducted for complete blood analysis, inflammation markers, hormone levels, or other conditions.
The anatomical evaluation is sometimes necessary to make the final diagnosis, so a healthcare provider may ask for a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound. These tests give a structured overview of the organs, and any abnormality can be detected through them. A finding of a tumor, testicular torsion, varicocele, or cyst can be made.
Semen analysis is done to check sperm morphology and viability of the sperm.
When none of the tests proves the final diagnosis or sometimes rule out other medical illnesses, a healthcare provider may refer to a urologist or reproductive specialist for further evaluation.
Treatment involves the severity of the symptoms and the range of discomfort caused to the patient. The treatment options include:
Based on the evaluation and test results, medication is sometimes considered the best option for treatment. If the pain is mild and no other medical condition exists, an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen alleviates pain. In case of inflammation like prostatitis or epididymitis, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Ibuprofen, are used to relieve inflammatory signs and symptoms.
In case of infections like sexually transmitted infections or urinary tract infections, antibiotics are prescribed. In the case of hyperplasia, alpha-blockers are given that relieve muscle hypertrophy of the prostate gland.
Lifestyle changes are usually necessary because they are the basis of overall health. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration are key to health improvement.
Pelvic floor physical therapy strengthens pelvic floor muscles, gives required flexibility, and alleviates pain.
Relaxation techniques like deep breath exercises and meditation are necessary, especially when psychological involvement is proven.
A tumor or cyst, if present, sometimes can only be removed through surgery.
Sperm cramps can last from some hours to a few days.
Before the diagnosis begins, a common question may arise in the affected individual if the experiencing cramps are real. If the pain only appears during or after ejaculation, then sperm cramps are the reason for discomfort.
No, too much sperm can not cause sperm pain. However, infection or inflammation can cause testicular pain or discomfort.
Sperm cramps are a real phenomenon that, like other medical conditions, need thorough analysis, particularly when the presenting symptoms are severe, to rule out the presence of other medical illnesses.
They are easily manageable by preventing certain activities like eating unclean foods and less water intake, taking medication when necessary, and exercising and meditating. Always consult the doctor immediately when concerned and avoid self-diagnosis. Sperm cramps can lead to serious health issues.