Semen remains surrounded by many misconceptions: is it good for your health? Is it high in calories? Can it transmit diseases? In this analysis, Dr. Gilbert Bou Jaoudé, a physician specializing in sexual health, debunks the most widespread myths and offers a clear medical perspective based on current scientific knowledge.
What is semen actually made of?
Contrary to what one might think, sperm cells represent only a tiny fraction of the total volume of semen (1 to 2%). The rest is composed mainly of water, enriched with a multitude of micronutrients: proteins, fructose, sorbitol, vitamins (notably C and B12), zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, carnitine, among others. These elements play a fundamental role: nourishing the sperm so that they can survive for several hours, or even several days, in the female body before potential fertilization.
Any health benefits?
From a strictly nutritional standpoint, these micronutrients are indeed beneficial to the body. However, their concentration in a single ejaculation (on average 2 to 6 ml, or about a teaspoon) is so low that they have no measurable effect on health. To benefit from their properties, one would need to consume considerable volumes—a completely unrealistic scenario. In other words, swallowing semen is neither harmful nor beneficial to your health.
Can it make you gain weight?
Semen contains a small amount of sugar, which leads some to wonder whether it could contribute to weight gain. In reality, an ejaculation contains between 5 and 10 calories. A negligible amount, incapable of affecting your energy balance. Again, only extremely large quantities would have an impact—something that is not feasible under normal circumstances.
Does it have antidepressant effects?
This idea is partly based on the presence of oxytocin in semen, a hormone associated with bonding and calming. A study published in 2002 observed that women who had unprotected sex reported lower levels of anxiety and depression than those who used condoms. However, these findings do not in any way prove a direct effect of semen: other factors such as relationship stability, frequency of intercourse, or the emotional context may come into play. There is no solid evidence to support the idea that ingesting semen has antidepressant effects.
Risks during pregnancy?
Ancient beliefs attributed semen with the ability to “nourish” the fetus or facilitate childbirth. Some of the hormones it contains (prostaglandins, oxytocin) can indeed influence uterine contractions. However, their concentration is far too low to have any real impact on the course of a normal pregnancy. Moreover, the fetus is protected by a sealed membrane: semen cannot reach it or harm its development in any way.
Taste and smell: the influence of diet
The taste and smell of semen can vary depending on the foods consumed in the 24 to 48 hours prior. Sulfur-rich foods (garlic, onion, asparagus), red meats or alcohol can make it more bitter. On the other hand, a diet rich in acidic fruits (kiwis, oranges, berries) tends to make it more pleasant. These variations are natural and are not indicators of health or illness.
What about sexually transmitted infections?
This is the main actual risk associated with swallowing semen: the transmission of certain STIs. Semen can contain pathogens such as human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia, or more rarely HIV. These infections can be transmitted during unprotected oral-genital sex. It is therefore recommended to practice safe sex, especially in cases of multiple or unknown partners.
Semen allergy: a rare reality
Finally, although it remains rare, some people may develop an allergy to semen. Symptoms are similar to other allergic reactions: itching, redness, irritation. In very rare cases, an allergic reaction in the throat may cause breathing difficulties. If in doubt, a skin test can help rule out this risk.
In summary, swallowing semen is neither dangerous nor particularly beneficial to your health. The risks are minimal when it involves a stable, infection-free relationship. But as with any sexual practice, information, consent, and prevention remain essential.