Sperm can live inside a woman's reproductive system for about 3 to 5 days after ejaculation. Under optimal conditions, such as during ovulation when cervical mucus is most favorable, sperm survival can extend up to 5 days. This mucus protects sperm from drying out and helps them move toward the fallopian tubes, where fertilization occurs
. The lifespan depends on several factors including the quality of the sperm, the acidity of the vagina, and the presence of fertile cervical mucus. Without these ideal conditions, sperm may survive only a few hours. However, when conditions are right, sperm can be stored temporarily in cervical crypts and released gradually, increasing the chance of fertilization
. In summary, sperm typically live up to 5 days inside a woman, with an average around 3 days, allowing a window for fertilization if intercourse occurs shortly before or during ovulation
