Sperm Cramps

Sperm Cramps
Table of Contents

When discussing fertility, women’s reproductive health takes precedence. Male reproductive concerns are frequently kept private, and some men are hesitant to discuss them openly.  

However, everyone knows that both male and female’s reproductive health is essential for successful pregnancy outcomes. So, examining men’s infertility issues is emerging as mandatory. 

And, the male infertility issues are often related to sperm production, delivery, and count. Similarly, there is a problem called sperm cramps. Some men experience this condition while the others never heard about it. 

This blog gives you a detailed view on sperm cramps, how long it will last, and when to reach out to the doctor. So, keep exploring. 

What is Sperm Cramps?

Sperm cramps, also known as ejaculatory cramps, cause pain and hinder sexual and reproductive health in men following orgasm. This can happen in both situations during ejaculation and without ejaculation. 

And, the pain or discomfort varies from person to person. There are numerous symptoms, reasons, and treatments available for sperm cramps. Therefore, dig deeper and know about it in detail. 

Why Sperm Cramps happen in male?

Sperm cramps are caused due to various conditions including testicular torsion, prostatitis, ejaculatory duct obstruction, urethritis, sexually transmitted infections, and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. 

And, the fundamental reason for these causes is inflammation, infection in the epididymitis, swelling of prostate gland, and dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles. 

Here is a simple table that elaborates about the condition, causes and symptoms in detail.

Condition Reasons Symptoms
Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction
Tightness in the pelvic floor muscles
Pelvic pain and discomfort during ejaculation
Sexually Transmitted Infections STIs
Inflammation or pain because of infection like gonorrhea or chlamydia
Pelvic pain, genital sores, painful urination discharge
Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction
Block in the duct that is where the semen is ejaculated
Low semen volume, painful ejaculation, and infertility
Urethritis
Urethra inflammation
Itching or irritation and painful urination
Epididymitis
Infection or inflammation in the epididymitis
Pain and swelling in the testicle and painful urination
Orchitis
Inflammation is one of the testicles because of viral or bacterial infection
swollen and painful testicles, nausea, fever, and fatigue
Prostatitis
Swelling of the prostate gland
Pelvic pain and painful urination and ejaculation
Varicocele
Enlargement of the veins within the scrotum
Dull ache, visible enlarged veins, and scrotal swelling
Testicular Torsion
Reduced blood flow because of the twist in the testicle
Sudden and severe testicular pain and swelling
Hydrocele
Buildup of fluid in one or both testicles
Painless swelling of the scrotum and heaviness

Can Sperm Buildup cause Abdominal Pain in Males?

From the above table, it is clear that many reasons are available for sperm cramps. Many men are concerned about sperm build up and suspect that it could be a reason for ejaculatory cramps. 

But the truth is, prolonged sexual inactivity might be a reason for abdominal pain. Sperm buildup in a rare condition can give symptoms like painful ejaculation, frequent urination, abnormal wetness during sex, and excessive amount of semen.

What are the Symptoms of Sperm Cramps?

Sperm cramps in male can be mild to worse. Cramps could accompany swelling and redness of the reproductive organ, and changes in urination or ejaculation. 

Other than this, you can check whether you have sperm cramps or not through these listed symptoms. 

  • Pain during or after ejaculation.
  • Reduced sexual desire or pleasure. 
  • Swelling or tenderness in the epididymis or testicles.
  • Increased stress, anxiety or depression. 
  • Pelvic pain and intense abdominal pain. 
  • Aching discomfort in the lower abdomen. 
  • Some male feel sharp and throbbing pain and others experience mild pain. 
  • Discomfort or cramps lasts from short to long duration. 
  • Sperm cramps generally occur in genital parts or lower abdomen. Some specific areas of pain are lower back, urethra, pelvic region, scrotum, and penis. 

How Long Sperm Cramps Last

Now, let’s be aware of the duration of ejaculatory cramps. Sperm cramps last from a few minutes to hours. And, men can experience mild to severe discomfort, which also varies among different individuals. Some factors contribute to the duration of cramps, 

Frequency of Ejaculation

Chronic pelvic contractions during orgasm and more frequent ejaculation may cause less to intense sperm cramps.  

Underlying Health Conditions

The tube that stores and carries sperm gets inflamed, one of testicles is inflamed or infected, prostate gland swelling, and enlarged veins in the scrotum are some underlying health issues.

These conditions can cause intense prolonged symptoms or mild discomfort. 

Treatment to take for Sperm Cramps

Infection and inflammation are the most common reasons for sperm cramps. Even though it is not a serious condition, treating sperm cramps in the right way is essential. So, follow these steps to get rid of pain and discomfort. 

Medication

As previously stated, cramps are due to the inflammation in the male reproductive organ. So, anti-inflammatory medicines are highly recommended for better relief. Antibiotics are also recommended to treat the infections in genital areas. 

Painkillers

It is a temporary solution for the sperm cramps. Men can take over-the-counter pain relief drugs that ease the pain and make you feel better. 

Yoga and Meditation

Habits like meditation, breathing exercises, and specific yoga asanas aid you in relaxing the pelvic muscles and minimize the cramps. Plus, regular yoga practice creates mental clarity, calmness, and relaxes your mind. 

Therefore, making it a habit enhances your overall health and emotional well-being. 

Physical therapy

There is an exclusive therapy called pelvic floor physical therapy to relax and strengthen the pelvic muscles. And, regular exercise can reduce muscle tension and alleviate the sperm cramp symptoms.

Lifestyle changes

You can treat and prevent the sperm cramps through small and consistent changes in your daily lifestyle. So, make sure you follow this routine strictly to witness better results. 

  • Eat healthy and must include foods promoting male reproductive health. It includes eggs, meat, fish, whole grains, bananas, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, spinach, pomegranates, oranges, kiwis, fenugreek, and mushrooms. 
  • Practice good hygiene and keep the genital areas clean to prevent infections. 
  • Engage in relaxation techniques and mindfulness practice to overcome daily stress and anxiety. 
  • Ejaculate regularly to prevent sperm buildup and reduce discomfort due to sperm congestion.
  • Stay hydrated to maintain good health and reduce muscle pain associated with ejaculatory cramps. 

Surgery

Last but not least, if there is any blockage in the ejaculatory duct, then surgery is the best way to treat sperm cramps. Make sure to consult the best fertility expert and treat this condition.

When to go for a consultation?

Treating sperm cramps with over-the-counter medicines is a good option if the pain is mild or you’re at the early stage of cramps. Make sure to visit the fertility expert when you experience these alarming symptoms, 

Frequent sperm cramps: Getting sperm cramps occasionally is not an issue, but if it is frequent you need immediate attention. 

Prolonged and intense pain: The intensity of pain differs depending on the individuals. Still, if you experience worse pain then you must consult the fertility expert. 

Swelling or lumps: Inflammation, swelling and redness in the genital parts could be associated with fertility health. In this case, an immediate visit can help you treat the issue immediately. 

Unusual discharge: Pain during urination and unusual discharge from penis might indicate that you have an infection. Treating this with fertility expert guidance can relieve you from sperm cramps. 

Trouble with erection and ejaculation: Pain during ejaculation may indicate underlying health issues in sperm production. So, men can visit the clinic to be aware of their reproductive health conditions. 

Final thoughts

Sperm cramps are not a serious issue to worry about, still treating them in early stages is important. Because, ignoring the mild pain could affect your reproductive health and reduce your self-esteem. 

Feel free to converse about your medical condition with the fertility expert and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Normalize open communication with your healthcare provider, otherwise it could become a barrier to your parenthood dream. 

Trust the experts as they can treat sperm cramps with proper diagnosis and treatments. 

Share:
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
LinkedIn
Picture of Dr. Rukkayal Fathima
Dr. Rukkayal Fathima

Dr Rukkayal Fathima, India's Leading Gynaecologist and the best fertility doctor in Chennai. She has 11+ years of experience and treated 1000+ patients. She finished her M. S., Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the Institute of Obstetrics & Gynaecology (Madras Medical College), Chennai. She is a visiting consultant at St. Isabelle Hospital, Motherhood Hospital, Rainbow Hospital & Mehta Hospital. Dr Rukkayal Fathima specialises in Obstetrics care, Early Pregnancy Scan, IVF, ICSI, TESA/Micro TESE, Menopause advice, Gynaecological surgeries and endoscopy. She is a Co-Founder of Hive Fertility, the Best Fertility Center in Chennai.

Social Media
baby-image

Are you failing to get pregnant?

Related Posts
Is Amla Good in Pregnancy
fertility
Dr Rukkayal Fathima
Is Amla Good in Pregnancy

Berries are usually filled with more nutrients that do many wonders for our human body. Indian gooseberry is also evolved to do many good things

Read More »
Women Health
Dr Rukkayal Fathima
Can We Eat Curd During Periods

Yeah, you can eat curd during menstruation as it enhances your good gut bacteria and contributes to overall health in abundant ways. Many young girls

Read More »

Start your motherhood Journey now

Treat Your Fertility Issues & Get Your Two Pink Lines

12+ Years of Experience. 1000+ IVF Cycles

Start your motherhood Journey now

Are you failing to get pregnant?

Book your slot for expert's advise

Book Your Fertility Consultation