The Hidden Threat: How Seminal Vesiculitis Causes Infertility in Young Men

Seminal vesiculitis, an inflammation of the seminal vesicles, is often triggered by bacterial infections. The infection can spread to adjacent structures like the epididymis and testes, posing significant threats to male fertility.

If left untreated, seminal vesiculitis can lead to persistent discomfort and severe complications. Chronic cases may involve bacteria in the semen, adversely affecting both the quantity and quality of sperm. This often results in reduced sperm motility, thereby diminishing the chances of conception. Male infertility, consequently, not only strains family relationships but also imposes a heavy psychological burden on men.

How Seminal Vesiculitis Leads to Infertility

1. Toxins in Semen

Semen contains vital nutrients for sperm survival and activity, along with trace amounts of acidic substances like lactic acid. When the seminal vesicles and prostate are inflamed, bacteria infiltrate the semen, increasing lactic acid levels and accumulating bacterial toxins and metabolic by-products. These bacteria consume essential nutrients and compete for oxygen, thereby reducing fertility.

2. Semen Non-Liquefaction

About 90% of semen is composed of secretions from the seminal vesicles, including fructose, a critical energy source for sperm. During inflammation, the volume of these secretions decreases, affecting sperm vitality. When both the prostate and seminal vesicles are inflamed, they may contain bacteria and a high number of white blood cells, sometimes even pus. This increases semen viscosity, preventing it from liquefying properly and reducing sperm motility, which can lead to infertility.

3. Sperm Mortality

The optimal pH level for semen is between 7.2 and 8.9, providing a conducive environment for sperm activity. During seminal vesiculitis, the increase in acidic substances lowers the pH, creating a more acidic environment that can kill sperm and result in infertility.

4. Reduced Sperm Count

During infection, the volume of ejaculate typically decreases, which is detrimental to sperm survival. If nonbacterial prostatitis accompanies the disease, the volume may sometimes increase, but this dilutes the sperm concentration per unit volume, negatively impacting fertility.

5. Semen pH Imbalance

Chronic seminal vesiculitis can disrupt the pH balance of semen, causing it to become either too acidic or too alkaline. The pH level plays a crucial role in sperm survival and activity, and deviations from the normal range can lead to decreased motility or sperm death.

Symptoms to Watch For

Pain

Acute seminal vesiculitis may cause lower abdominal pain extending to the perineum and both groins. Chronic conditions might present as dull pain in the pubic region, accompanied by discomfort in the perineum, with pain intensifying during ejaculation.

Hematospermia

Due to bacterial invasion and inflammation, the seminal vesicles become congested. During sexual activity, smooth muscle and blood vessels contract, causing a significant infiltration of red blood cells and pus cells into the semen. This results in bloody ejaculation, with the semen appearing pink, red, or containing blood clots. Hematospermia is more pronounced in acute cases.

Urinary Tract Irritation

Acute seminal vesiculitis presents with urgency, pain during urination, and sometimes difficulty urinating. Chronic cases are characterized by frequent urination, urgency, discomfort during urination, and a burning sensation. Hematuria (blood in urine) is another symptom of acute seminal vesiculitis.

Systemic Symptoms

Severe cases may include systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, and general malaise.

Sexual Dysfunction

Men with seminal vesiculitis may experience painful ejaculation, a hallmark symptom. Chronic stages can also lead to common sexual dysfunctions such as decreased libido, nocturnal emissions, and premature ejaculation.

Treatment and Management

Medication Therapy

For bacterial seminal vesiculitis, antibiotics are selected based on bacterial culture results, ensuring sufficient dosage and duration to eradicate the pathogens and prevent recurrence. Nonbacterial inflammation or significant inflammatory reactions can be managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate symptoms and pain. In cases where long-term disease or antibiotic resistance is an issue, medications such as Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill can be considered to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of infertility.

Physical Therapy

Heat packs can increase local blood circulation, alleviating pain and discomfort and facilitating recovery. Professional prostate massages can promote the excretory function of the prostate and seminal vesicles, easing congestion and relieving symptoms. Specialized physical therapy devices like ultrasound therapy machines and electrical stimulation devices can accelerate tissue repair and inflammation resolution, improving semen quality and fertility.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms and prevent infertility. Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, adopting a healthy diet, and maintaining personal hygiene can boost immunity, reduce disease risk, and lower the incidence of infertility. Additionally, moderating the frequency of sexual activity to avoid excessive indulgence is recommended.