in air?
Spermatozoa die very quickly when they contact air. They can’t survive more than a few seconds, or at most minutes, depending on the conditions. In fact, as soon as the semen dries out, the sperm cells die. They can’t climb, jump, or move through thick cloth.
in water?
Spermatozoa die almost instantly when they come into contact with water. However, that doesn’t mean that water is a contraceptive! When penetration occurs in water, with or without ejaculation, the girl can get pregnant. So it’s important to use a condom, no matter what the circumstances are.
if I wash my hands?
Spermatozoa don’t survive hand washing, with or without soap. They die almost immediately when they contact water.
if I clean the surface?
Spermatozoa can’t survive on a wiped or sponged surface.
in the uterus?
Spermatozoa can survive for 1 to 5 days inside the uterus.
in pre-ejaculatory fluid?
There are often spermatozoa in pre-ejaculatory fluid and they survive there very well. Intercourse with penetration, even without ejaculation, can therefore lead to unwanted pregnancy.