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First part of ejaculate best for conception

Researchers believe that considering separate phases of an ejaculation will allow scientists to collect samples that better meet requirements for in vitro fertilization, according to a new study.

By Stephen Feller

SEVILLA, Spain, May 27 (UPI) -- Separating ejaculation into phases, researchers have found that the first half of ejaculate is best for conception because it contains a higher concentration of sperm that are faster moving and possess higher DNA integrity.

Researchers believe that considering separate phases of an ejaculation will allow scientists to collect samples that better meet requirements for in vitro fertilization, according to a new study.

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"The ejaculate has always been considered as a whole. However, we think that is divided into two well differentiated by their composition and physiological functions, aimed at getting two equal shares in major reproductive phases," María Hebles, co-director of the reproduction laboratory at the Ginemed Clinic in Seville, said in a press release.

Researchers said that the first fraction of ejaculate, which includes acid phosphatase, citric acid, magnesium and zinc that protect the sperm, is meant to inseminate the egg during intercourse. The second fraction is composed of secretions from the seminal vesicles that have a negative effect on sperm, and evolutionarily prevented subsequent mates from impregnating a female.

The study already has resulted in requesting that patients for in vitro fertilization collect ejaculate in two sections as a way of "improving the quality of sperm used for fertilization."

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The study is published in Systems Biology in Reproductive Medicine.

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