In animals, semen has been collected for cryoconservation. Semen is also a form of genetic material. The fluid is designed to be discharged deep into the vagina, so the spermatozoa can pass into the uterus and form a zygote with an egg. In humans, seminal fluid contains several components besides spermatozoa: proteolytic and other enzymes as well as fructose are elements of seminal fluid which promote the survival of spermatozoa, and provide a medium through which they can move or 'swim'. The process that results in the discharge of semen from the urethral orifice is called ejaculation. Semen is produced and originates from the seminal vesicle, which is located in the pelvis. It is secreted by the gonads (sexual glands) and other sexual organs of male or hermaphroditic animals and can fertilize the female ovum.

Semen, also known as seminal fluid, is an organic bodily fluid created to contain spermatozoa. Spermatozoa, in this case human, are a primary component in normal semen, and the agents of fertilization of female ova.