Cold semen is not a common problem, and the most likely causes of semen that is colder than normal have to do with the testicles being in a very cold environment without adequate protection.
The testes must remain at a stable temperature in order to keep semen from becoming too hot or too cold. This is why the testicles appear to shrink and recede into the body when a male is submerged in cold water or is inadequately covered in cold weather.
Semen is a semi-liquid substance produced by the male testicles and prostate. It is composed of enzymes, proteins, simple sugars, and other substances used to fuel and nourish sperm cells.
Because it is housed inside the body, semen typically stays within a few degrees of the 98.6 degrees (37 degrees Celsius) the human body maintains. This makes cold semen very unlikely to occur.
Sperm need to be kept several degrees cooler than the rest of the body, so the scrotum hangs below the abdominal cavity to preserve them. If the temperature surrounding the testicles becomes too cold, the scrotal sack contracts so that the testes are raised closer to the body to keep the temperature stable.
Likewise, in hotter climates the testicles hang away from the body to keep cooler. Generally, very hot temperatures are more of a threat to sperm cells than cold ones.
Sperm need to be kept several degrees cooler than the rest of the body, so the scrotum hangs below the abdominal cavity to preserve them. If the temperature surrounding the testicles becomes too cold, the scrotal sack contracts so that the testes are raised closer to the body to keep the temperature stable.
Likewise, in hotter climates, the testicles hang away from the body to keep cooler. Generally, very hot temperatures are more of a threat to sperm cells than cold ones.
Another situation where cold semen may be present is when it is collected and deliberately frozen to conserve it. This is usually done for fertilization purposes.
Male sperm donors and those who are having trouble getting their partners pregnant may turn to cryogenic freezing of sperm-containing semen for later use.
This type of cold semen would be lowered to below-freezing temperatures using liquid nitrogen. Some sperm will typically die during this process, but many of them will revive once the semen is thawed.
Semen also cools in temperature very quickly after ejaculation has occurred. For this reason, men might not be able to tell if their semen is colder than normal by touching it. Any man who feels he may have fertility issues or abnormal semen should consult a specialist.
How Do You Keep the Testicles Warm To Reduce Instances of Cold Semen?
Testosterone can be warmed up very easily and safely through the following ways.
Warm Clothing
Clothes can pin down the heat that will warm up the testicles and the semen. However, please avoid tight pants and undergarments as they can bring about too much heat, and potentially cause more damage. Dress appropriately depending on the weather.
Sitting
Sitting can also warm up the testicles. When they are in contact with the thighs, the chance for cold air to reach them is low. This is a natural method of warming your testicles.
Hot Shower
This activity will increase your body temperature and, in turn, warm up the testicles. However, if the temperature of the testicles rises above normal, it temporarily lowers the quality of sperm. In addition to hot showers, take breaks from bodies of water, like swimming pools and beaches, that can make your semen cold.
How Cold Is Too Cold?
The testicles are liable to hypothermia or frostbite if temperatures are too low. Even protected areas of the body are at risk of hypothermia as the air temperature falls to 5°F ( -15°C) or colder.
Hypothermia is caused by exposure to very cold temperatures, and as a result, the body begins to slow down. The body's response to hypothermia is protective, allowing the heart rate and other vital functions to remain normal even when other organs slow down.
It tends to move towards the lower region. If your thighs are experiencing frostbite, the testicles may be next.
Indicators of frostbite
- Skin turning white or red
- Skin looking waxy
- Numbness
- Feeling an itchy sensation on the skin
What Is the Association Between Temperature and Semen Quality?
The association between temperature and semen quality has been studied for decades, but the results are still inconclusive. In general, it seems that cooler temperatures are better for semen quality.
Semen quality is a vital determinant for male fertility. The process of spermatogenesis is also susceptible to fluctuations in temperature. Studies show that semen quality criteria include, among others, total sperm number, sperm concentration, and total motility.
According to research, keeping the testicular temperature between 31°C to 37°C (88°F to 99°F) allows for perfect RNA, DNA, and protein synthesis. Therefore, resulting in quality sperm production.
Researchers have also found that temperature positively affects sperm movement; a slightly elevated temperature and a sudden drop in temperature can both improve their swimming abilities.
Men living in colder temperatures are also said to have higher levels of semen quality than those living in warmer climates.
What Would Be the Cause of Cold and Sweaty Testicles?
Different factors can cause cold and sweaty testicles.
Hyperhidrosis Disorder
This condition causes you to sweat excessively, often in areas where it's not normal. Sometimes people with hyperhidrosis have "hot" sweats, but other times they experience cold sweats.
Tight Clothing
Wearing tight-fitting underwear or pants can cause your testicles to sweat because there's less air circulation around them.
Thyroid Disease
The thyroid hormone regulates your body temperature and plays a role in sweat production. Some types of thyroid disease can cause cold, sweaty testicles as a result.
If you experience any of these symptoms or notice any other changes in your health that might contribute to them, visit a doctor for further testing.