Sperm can survive inside the body for several days and achieve fertilization.
Jun 08, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Luo Yong
Introduction
Sperm typically survive no longer than eight hours within the female body. Once sperm enter the fallopian tubes, only one or two may successfully fertilize the egg; the remainder die within approximately 24 hours. Sperm stored in the cervical mucus may survive for three to four days, but their fertilizing capacity is essentially lost.
Sperm typically survive for no more than eight hours inside the female reproductive tract.
The acidic vaginal secretions have a pH generally ranging from 3.5 to 4. After entering the vagina, most sperm die relatively quickly; however, a certain volume of semen provides protective effects, allowing only a small number of highly resilient sperm to survive and ultimately reach the uterus.
Once sperm enter the fallopian tubes, their fertilizing capacity is at its peak. Typically, only one or two sperm successfully fuse with the egg; the remainder die within approximately 24 hours. Sperm stored in the cervical mucus may survive for three to four days, but their fertilizing ability is largely lost, as sperm generally retain functional fertilizing capacity for only about 20 hours.
Couples attempting conception may optimize their chances by engaging in intercourse the day before ovulation. However, successful pregnancy depends on numerous factors, including oocyte quality, sperm quality, and the health of the fallopian tubes and uterus.
