How long does the sperm production process take?
On average, it takes 50–60 days for sperm to develop in the testicles.
After this, the sperm move to the epididymis, which are the ducts behind the testicles that store and carry sperm.
It takes about 14 more days for the sperm to fully mature in the epididymis.
Spermatogenesis is the process by which the body makes sperm. The process begins when the hypothalamus in the brain releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This hormone stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to secrete luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). These two hormones travel through the blood to the testes.
LH encourages the Leydig cells to make testosterone. FSH acts on seminiferous tubules, an area of the testes where the body makes sperm.
An issue with any of these hormones may affect a person’s ability to make sperm and may slow the process.
On average, sperm production takes 74 days from start to finish, but the process may be shorter or longer in individual males.
