How can sperm affect your fertility
- Santati Fertility Center
- 18 January 2024
Sperm health can significantly impact fertility, especially in the context of male infertility. Here are some ways in which sperm can affect fertility:
1,Sperm count: A low sperm count, known as oligospermia, can reduce the likelihood of fertilization because there are fewer sperm available to reach and fertilize the egg.
2,Sperm motility: Poor sperm motility, or the inability of sperm to move effectively, can impede the sperm's ability to reach and penetrate the egg.
3,Sperm morphology: Abnormal sperm shape or size can also hinder the sperm's ability to reach and fertilize the egg.
4,Ejaculation issues: Problems with ejaculation, such as retrograde ejaculation (where semen enters the bladder instead of emerging through the penis) or premature ejaculation, can affect fertility.
5,Sperm health and DNA integrity: Sperm with damaged DNA may have reduced fertility potential and an increased risk of miscarriage if they successfully fertilize an egg.
6,Hormonal imbalances: Some hormonal imbalances can affect sperm production, leading to lower sperm counts or decreased sperm motility.
7,Varicocele: This refers to the swelling of veins that drain the testicle. It can lead to reduced sperm quality.
8,Infections: Certain infections, such as sexually transmitted infections, can affect sperm production and function.
9,Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity, and certain environmental exposures, can all negatively impact sperm health and fertility.
If you are concerned about your fertility or suspect a problem with sperm health, it is important to consult a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist. They can perform tests to assess sperm health and provide guidance on potential treatments or lifestyle changes that may improve fertility. Additionally, both partners should be evaluated to ensure a comprehensive understanding of any potential fertility issues.