What Causes Seminal Vesiculitis and How Does It Impact Fertility?

The male reproductive system plays a vital role in sexual function, with organs like the seminal vesicles and testicles responsible for sperm production. However, these organs are susceptible to injury and disease, with seminal vesiculitis being a common urological condition, particularly among men aged 20 to 45.

Seminal vesiculitis occurs when inflammation affects the seminal vesicles, which are located adjacent to the prostate and contribute to semen composition. This inflammation, often accompanied by blood in semen, can persist and impact male fertility, frequently coexisting with prostatitis and involving both testes.

What Causes Seminal Vesiculitis?

1. Pathogen Infection: Seminal vesiculitis is typically caused by bacterial infection, although mycoplasma, chlamydia, fungi, and gonococcus can also be culprits. These pathogens invade via the urethra or prostate, spreading through the bloodstream or vas deferens to trigger infection and inflammation.

2. Misuse of Antibiotics: Improper use of antibiotics for conditions like prostatitis or urethritis can allow residual pathogens in the vas deferens or urethra to proliferate, leading to recurrent seminal vesiculitis episodes.

3. Reduced Immunity: Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, frequent masturbation, high sexual activity, sleep deprivation, and prolonged sitting can weaken immunity, making it easier for pathogens to spread to the scrotum via the vas deferens, lymphatic system, or bloodstream.

4. Seminal Fluid Retention: Sexual excitement without ejaculation or prolonged abstinence can lead to the retention of seminal fluid in the organs, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth and infection.

Impact on Male Fertility

Seminal vesiculitis significantly affects male fertility due to its impact on semen composition:

1. Altered Semen Composition: Inflammatory factors disrupt the normal composition of seminal plasma, affecting sperm nutrition and development, thereby reducing sperm motility and hindering fertility.

2. Increased Semen Viscosity: Enzyme secretion from the seminal vesicles is compromised, resulting in increased semen viscosity and impaired sperm motility. Concurrent prostatitis exacerbates this issue, further altering semen composition and potentially causing sperm death.

3. Abnormal Sperm Count: Inflammation-induced nutrient reduction may lower sperm count and increase seminal plasma secretion, diluting semen and diminishing fertility.

The seminal vesicle, a vital accessory gland within the male reproductive system, significantly influences male fertility, and any damage inflicted upon it can have serious consequences for fertility. Thus, prompt treatment is imperative.

Antibiotics serve as common pharmaceutical interventions for inflammation. Following pathogen identification, antibiotics tailored to the specific pathogen's sensitivity are prescribed. In clinical practice, many patients opt for traditional Chinese medicine like the Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill to alleviate symptoms such as abnormal urination and local discomfort. It has multifaceted effects, including heat-clearing, detoxification, promotion of blood circulation, and removal of blood stasis, aid in effectively alleviating symptoms and addressing underlying causes.

Regardless of the chosen medication, a structured treatment regimen is necessary. The full efficacy of medications is typically realized only after several standardized courses of treatment. Consequently, patients must exercise patience throughout the treatment process.

Preventive measures include:

1. Regular Exercise: Seminal vesiculitis often arises from infections, particularly when the body's defenses are compromised. Therefore, prioritizing regular exercise routines can bolster physical fitness, fortify immunity, and deter bacterial invasions, thus reducing the likelihood of developing this condition.

2. Sexual Activity Control: Controlling sexual activity frequency is crucial for preventing seminal vesiculitis. Excessive sexual activity can contribute to prostate congestion, which may precede prostatitis and subsequently increase the risk of seminal vesiculitis development.

3. Dietary Modifications: Avoiding spicy foods is essential as they can trigger seminal vesiculitis. Opting for milder, less stimulating food choices can help mitigate disease triggers and promote overall urological health.

4. Hydration and Urination: Increasing water intake and refraining from holding in urine are vital preventive measures. Adequate hydration ensures the urinary tract remains clear, facilitating the timely expulsion of prostate secretions and preventing their accumulation, thereby reducing the risk of seminal vesiculitis.

5. Prompt Disease Treatment: Prompt treatment of conditions like epididymitis and prostatitis is imperative. Timely medical intervention can prevent disease progression and mitigate the risk of seminal vesiculitis development, underscoring the importance of seeking medical attention promptly when symptoms arise.