Influence of ejaculatory abstinence on seminal total antioxidant capacity and sperm membrane lipid peroxidation

Higher seminal TAC obtained after a shorter period of EA could diminish oxidative stress-induced sperm damage by a mechanism independent of LPO. Shorter periods of EA may thus improve sperm quality by protecting from reactive oxygen species damage, even though lower numbers of motile sperm are produced after a shorter period of EA. This would be consistent with prior research indicating improved results after intrauterine insemination under these circumstances.