Production

• Sperm are produced in the testes, where it takes approximately 10 weeks for a single soldier to reach maturity
• Matured sperm is stored in the epididymis - the coil like structure that runs across the top of each testicle.
• Sperm can remain in the epididymis for about a fortnight before being delivered up as ejaculate, or broken down and reabsorbed by the body.

Content and delivery

• Semen doesn't just contain sperm, but fluids secreted by several glands during ejaculation.
• During sexual arousal, and close to the point of climax, semen travels from the epididymis through a tube called the vas deferens. Here, it picks up a fluid rich in fructose - a sugary substance that acts a bit like rocket fuel.
• Other fluids kick in along the way to the urethra (the tube that runs the length of the penis). This comes from the prostate gland, the Cowper's glands and the seminal vesicles. Some secretions are designed to neutralise acids (such as urine traces in the urethra), others provide vital enzymes).
• The finished product contains approximately just 10% sperm. The rest consists of enzymes, vitamin C, calcium, protein, sodium, zinc, citric acid and fructose sugar.

Quality assurance

• Some people think the food guys eat has an impact on sperm taste.
• Food containing naturally-occurring sugars, such as fruit (and even real ale) are believed to produce a finer vintage.
• Red meat, and diets rich in dairy produce may not go down so well, so guys should go easy on the milk and cheese, as well as onions and garlic - just be aware that these are foods that play an important role in a balanced diet, so don't cut it out completely!
• Smoking, alcohol and coffee are also thought to mess with semen taste, as are your state of health and any medication you might be taking.

Interesting facts

• There is no need to have sex or masturbate to ejaculation for health reasons. The body can happily cope with unused sperm, with no impact on fertility or sex drive.
• Every day, a healthy adult male can produce around 70 to 150 million sperm, while an average teaspoon-sized 'serving' contains between 200 and 500 million of the lil' wrigglers.
• Semen consistency varies from day to day, but can become thick or lumpy if you've been unwell or feeling a bit peaky. It has no impact on fertility, however, but if you're experiencing any pain or discharge (or you're concerned in any way) then don't hesitate to check it out with your GP to check for any underlying medical problem.

Updated: 14/01/2009