Effect of mating on sperm numbers and weight of the epididymis.

In man, a decrease in sperm count occurs after ejaculation. Approximately three days are needed for complete recovery to preejaculation levels. Our experiment evaluated the possibility that a similar recovery period is also required in the rat. The total spermatozoa in the epididymis and the weight of the epididymis decreased for four and two days after mating, respectively. These data demonstrate that a recovery period for epididymal sperm counts and weight is required in the male rat following mating.