New research from University of Oxford suggests that men who ejaculate more frequently may have better sperm quality, challenging long-standing advice around abstinence when trying to conceive.
The study, published this week, finds that while abstaining from ejaculation can increase sperm count, it may also reduce sperm health. Researchers say sperm stored for longer periods inside the male reproductive system tends to “age” and deteriorate, affecting its ability to fertilise an egg.
According to the researchers, sperm motility, which is the ability to swim, and viability both decline with prolonged storage. At the same time, damage to sperm DNA increases, raising concerns about fertility outcomes.
The team analysed semen data from nearly 55,000 men across 115 studies. Their findings point to oxidative stress and energy depletion as the main causes of sperm deterioration during storage.
“Using freshly ejaculated sperm for fertilisation could provide a meaningful boost to fertility outcomes,” the researchers note, highlighting that sperm, like eggs, has a limited functional lifespan once produced.
The findings come as global trends show declining sexual activity, especially among younger people, alongside delayed parenthood. Researchers warn that these patterns could further impact fertility rates.
Current guidance from the World Health Organization recommends abstaining for two to seven days before providing sperm samples for analysis or fertility treatment. However, the Oxford study suggests shorter intervals may produce better-quality sperm, with evidence showing improved IVF outcomes when ejaculation occurs within 48 hours of sample collection.
The study also draws on broader biological evidence across animal species, showing that sperm quality declines with storage in both males and females. However, sperm tends to deteriorate more slowly inside females due to protective biological mechanisms.
Researchers say the findings point to a simple but overlooked factor in male fertility: timing.
“Unlike many fertility challenges, the duration of sperm storage is something that can be changed,” the study notes, adding that more frequent ejaculation could help improve reproductive outcomes
