What disorders affect seminal vesicle function and fertility?

Infections, inflammation, cysts, stones, congenital absence, and duct blockages can impair seminal vesicles, lowering semen volume, changing pH and fructose levels, and reducing sperm motility and fertility.

Common disorders

• Vesiculitis (infection/inflammation): Can cause pelvic pain, painful ejaculation, blood in semen, and altered semen quality. Often linked with prostatitis or urinary infections.
• Cysts: Congenital or acquired cysts may compress ducts and reduce flow, leading to low-volume ejaculate and poor sperm transport.
• Calculi (stones): Mineral deposits may form in the vesicles or ducts, causing pain, blockage, and abnormal semen.
• Ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO): Obstruction from cysts, scarring, or stones can sharply reduce semen volume and fructose content, harming fertility.
• Congenital anomalies: Absence or underdevelopment of the vesicles or ducts (sometimes with vas deferens anomalies) results in very low semen volume and infertility.
• Neoplasms (rare): Tumors are uncommon but can distort structure and secretion.
• Systemic and metabolic issues: Severe dehydration, uncontrolled diabetes, or hormonal problems can change secretions and pH, reducing sperm function.

How disorders reduce fertility

Warning signs

• Low semen volume or very thick semen
• Pelvic or ejaculatory pain
• Blood in semen
• Infertility despite regular unprotected intercourse