Male infertility can often be traced to abnormalities in sperm. Understanding these common sperm issues is essential for diagnosing infertility and choosing the right treatment.
Common Sperm Problems:
- Poor Growth (Low Sperm Count – Oligospermia):
A reduced number of sperm in semen, making it harder to fertilize an egg. Normal sperm count ranges from 15 million to 200 million sperm per milliliter. Anything less than 15 million/ml is considered low and can affect fertility. - Oddly Shaped Sperm (Abnormal Morphology – Teratozoospermia):
Abnormal sperm shapes—such as misshapen heads, bent tails, or multiple tails—reduce the sperm’s ability to swim properly and penetrate the egg for fertilization. - Poor Mobility (Asthenozoospermia):
Sperm that cannot swim effectively or move abnormally, reducing their ability to reach and fertilize the egg. This can result from genetic factors, infections, lifestyle, or exposure to toxins. - Lack of Enough Sperm (Oligospermia):
Low sperm concentration in ejaculate often due to varicocele, infections, hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle factors like smoking and alcohol use. - No Measurable Sperm (Azoospermia):
Complete absence of sperm in semen, often caused by blockages in the reproductive tract, genetic factors, or testicular failure. This severe condition requires detailed evaluation and specialized treatment.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Difficulty conceiving despite regular intercourse
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
- Problems with ejaculation or erection
- Changes in semen volume or consistency
Treatment Options
- Lifestyle modifications: quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, healthy diet
- Medications and hormone therapies to correct underlying issues
- Surgical options for varicocele or obstructions
- Assisted reproductive technologies (IUI, IVF with ICSI) for severe cases
- Sperm extraction techniques in azoospermia
Take Action
If you experience any symptoms or suspect fertility problems, book a consultation with Ziva Fertility Specialists. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can help you overcome these issues and achieve your dream of parenthood.