Sperm can survive inside the body for several days and achieve fertilization.
Jul 06, 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 no longer than eight hours within the female reproductive tract.
The vaginal environment is acidic, with a pH generally ranging from 3.5 to 4. Upon entering the vagina, most sperm die relatively quickly; however, the seminal fluid provides some protection, enabling 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, while the remainder die within approximately 24 hours. Sperm stored in the cervical mucus may survive for three to four days, but their ability to fertilize an egg is largely lost, as sperm fertility generally persists for only about 20 hours.
Couples attempting conception may optimize their chances by having intercourse the day before ovulation. However, successful pregnancy depends on multiple factors, including oocyte quality, sperm quality, and the health of the fallopian tubes and uterus.
