Sperm cells are male reproductive cells. Sperm cell formation begins in adolescence and lasts the entirety of a person’s life. Sperm formation does not happen instantaneously, though. On average, it takes approximately 74 days for the process to be completed.

Sperm cell formation is a complex and efficient biological process essential for reproduction. Read on to explore everything you need to know about how sperm cells are formed.

Where are Sperm Cells Formed?

Sperm cells are formed in the testes (male reproductive organs). Seminiferous tubules are 250-meter-long, tube-like structures inside the testes. Sperm formation takes place inside these coiled structures.

Between the seminiferous tubules are Leydig cells, responsible for producing testosterone. This hormone is crucial for regulating sperm production. Additionally, the seminiferous tubules contain Sertoli cells, which create and maintain the ideal environment for sperm development.

Sperm Cell Formation

The process of sperm cell formation, known as spermatogenesis, is a highly organized sequence of events. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, totaling 46 chromosomes. Sperm cells carry 23 chromosomes, which combine with the 23 chromosomes from the egg during fertilization to form a zygote with 46 chromosomes.

Basically, spermatogenesis, or the process of sperm formation, has some stages.

Stages of Spermatogenesis

Spermatocytogenesis

This is the proliferative phase, where immature sperm cells (spermatogonia) replicate through mitosis. This stage ensures a constant supply of spermatogonia for sperm production

Spermatidogenesis

In this stage, spermatocytes undergo meiosis to form spermatids.

• Meiosis I produces secondary spermatocytes.
• Meiosis II results in haploid spermatids, each carrying 23 chromosomes.

Maturation Stage

In this phase, spermatids develop into mature spermatozoa. This stage is also known as spermiogenesis. At this point, spermatozoa are immobile and cannot move on their own.

Spermiation Stage

Mature spermatozoa are released into the cavity of the seminiferous tubules and transported to the epididymis, where they acquire motility by forming flagella. The epididymis stores these mature spermatozoa until ejaculation.

Formation of Sperm Cells – Hormonal Regulation

The three main hormones that regulate the formation of sperm cell are testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), interstitial cell stimulating hormone (ICHS).

The entire process of spermatogenesis takes approximately 74 days (10–12 weeks). Factors such as lifestyle, health conditions, and hormonal imbalances can significantly affect sperm quality and production

Effect of Temperature on Sperm Formation in Males

Temperature plays a crucial role in sperm formation. The ideal temperature for spermatogenesis is between 32°C and 35°C (90°F–95°F), which is slightly lower than normal body temperature.

Research suggests that even a rise of 1 °C may affect sperm formation negatively. In general, males should avoid activities that increase the temperature in this area. This includes prolonged use of saunas and jacuzzis, the use of tight underwear, etc

Male Infertility

Approximately 7% of men worldwide face infertility, often due to reduced sperm quality or quantity. Multiple factors may affect the process of sperm cell formation. Lifestyle choices, diseases, and infections are the more common factors that adversely affect sperm formation.

Common causes of male infertility include:

• Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use.
• Infections and Inflammations: Conditions such as mumps (after puberty), gonorrhea, HIV, epididymitis, and prostatitis.
• Genetic Disorders: Hemochromatosis, cystic fibrosis, and Down syndrome.
• Medications: Treatments for tuberculosis or syphilis can affect fertility.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone levels and other endocrine disorders.
• Structural Problems:
  • Undescended Testes (Cryptorchidism): Failure of the testes to descend at birth.
  • Torsion: Interruption of blood flow to the testes.
  • Varicocele: Enlarged veins in the scrotum

Sperm Donation & IVF

Male infertility accounts for 40–50% of infertility cases. Assisted reproductive technologies like sperm donation and in vitro fertilization (IVF) provide hope to couples struggling with infertility.

For individuals considering sperm donation or IVF treatment, British Cyprus IVF Hospital provides expert and compassionate care. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your dream of parenthood.