How long do sperm live after ejaculation?
Answer From Patricio C. Gargollo, M.D.
In general, sperm live for several days after being ejaculated during sex. Sperm typically can stay alive for about 3 to 5 days within the cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes. It's possible for an egg to be fertilized at any point during that time. The likelihood of pregnancy is highest when live sperm are in the fallopian tubes when an egg is released from one of the ovaries. That process is called ovulation.
When a health condition or medical treatment might harm fertility, some people save sperm to be used later. In those situations, sperm can be preserved for years using a technique called cryopreservation. This technique involves freezing the sperm, which is later thawed when it's going to be used to fertilize an egg.
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Patricio C. Gargollo, M.D.
Show References
- FAQs: Fertility awareness-based methods of family planning. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/Fertility-Awareness-Based-Methods-of-Family-Planning. Accessed Jan. 14, 2025.
- Goldman L, et al., eds. Contraception. In: Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Elsevier; 2024. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Jan. 14, 2025.
- Oktay K, et al. Fertility preservation: Cryopreservation options. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 14, 2025.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/pregnancy/faq-20058504