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Studies report that various chemicals in semen may help reduce depression in some women when absorbed in the body.
Semen contains several chemicals, including serotonin and oxytocin and various other hormones, and several prostaglandins that may act as mood enhancers. Moreover, it contains melatonin, the hormone that improves your sleep quality.
- Studies report that various chemicals in semen may help reduce depression when absorbed in the body through oral or vaginal sex.
- Some studies have even reported that women who had unprotected sex had a lower incidence of depression than those who used protection (condoms).
These studies, nonetheless, had their distinct limitations. Some had a small sample size, whereas others were based on animal findings besides being of a shorter duration (lacking a long-term follow-up). These studies did not include homosexual partners.
Furthermore, although the semen contains mood-elevating bioactive substances, the risk of unprotected sex (unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections) cannot be undermined. Sexual intercourse per se has a mood-elevating effect. The added benefit of seminal contact with the body is questionable compared to the associated risks.
If, however, you and your partner are free of STIs (based on medical examination and testing), indulge in a monogamous relationship, and plan to have a baby or practice other effective methods of birth control, then it may be safe for you to have unprotected sex.
Some women may be allergic to semen or find it gross to swallow during oral sex and, thus, must avoid coming in contact with it. Moreover, there are various safe, effective, and scientifically substantiated methods to control depression (such as counseling and medications).
If you think you are depressed, seek medical help to effectively control your symptoms.
What are the constituents of semen?
Semen or seminal fluid is released from the penis during ejaculation. On average, about 2 to 5 mL of semen is ejaculated at a time that contains about 200 to 300 million sperm. The sperm contributes to about two to five percent of the total volume of the semen.
Other constituents present in the semen include:
- Water
- Mucus
- Fructose (a type of sugar)
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Sodium
- Phosphorus
- Calcium
- Zinc
- Citric acid
- Amino acids
- Certain enzymes and hormones including prostaglandins
What is semen allergy?
Semen allergy (also called seminal plasma hypersensitivity or semen contact allergy) is a condition that causes an allergic reaction on coming in contact with semen. The condition exclusively affects women with just 100 reported cases worldwide.
- Semen allergy is mainly caused by certain proteins (such as prostate-specific antigen) present in the seminal fluid.
- Most women report semen allergy after their first sexual intercourse although some women may become allergic to semen later in life (such as after menopause).
- The allergy may cause localized, generalized (systemic), or mixed symptoms.
A localized reaction typically causes itching, burning, and tingling sensation in the vulva and vaginal area. It may also cause swelling over these areas. In severe cases, there may be an irritating rash along with blister formation, affecting the vagina and vulva.
Some women may experience generalized or systemic reactions with or without localized allergy symptoms, which includes:
Very severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in some women may require urgent medical attention. One must seek immediate medical help if they experience severe symptoms including chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, or dizziness.