Sperm and semen are both important components of male reproductive anatomy, but they are not the same thing. Here’s the difference between them:
- Sperm: Sperm are the male reproductive cells that are produced in the testes. They are very small and have a long, whip-like tail that allows them to swim through the female reproductive tract to reach the egg for fertilization. Sperm contain the genetic material needed to create a new life.
- Semen: Semen, also known as seminal fluid, is a mixture of fluid and sperm that is released from the penis during ejaculation. Semen is made up of secretions from the testes, prostate gland, and seminal vesicles. It provides a medium for the sperm to travel through and helps protect them on their journey to the egg. Semen also contains important nutrients, such as fructose, that provide energy for the sperm.
In summary, sperm are the male reproductive cells that contain genetic material, while semen is the fluid that carries the sperm out of the body during ejaculation.
