Abnormal Sperm Parameters
What are abnormal sperm parameters?
Abnormal sperm parameters are deviations in critical metrics like sperm count, motility, morphology, and volume, which are crucial for assessing male fertility and reproductive health. Issues with any of these factors can lead to difficulties in achieving pregnancy.
- Sperm Count: An average sperm count typically ranges from 15 million to over 100 million per millilitre of ejaculate. A count below 15 million is considered low, a condition known as oligospermia.
- Sperm Motility: This pertains to the sperm’s capability to swim and navigate efficiently. Normal motility is crucial for sperm to travel through the female reproductive tract. Sperm with poor motility, or asthenozoospermia, may struggle to reach and fertilise the egg.
- Sperm Morphology: Morphology evaluates the size and shape of sperm. Healthy sperm typically feature an oval-shaped head with a clearly defined acrosome and a long, streamlined tail.
- Abnormal sperm morphology, or teratozoospermia, occurs when sperm have irregular shapes that can impede their ability to fertilise an egg.
- Semen Volume: semen volume should not be less than from 1.5 mls per ejaculation. Lower volumes can indicate issues with the seminal vesicles or prostate.
Causes of Abnormal Sperm Parameters
Several factors can lead to abnormal sperm parameters, including lifestyle, medical conditions, and environmental influences:
Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as smoking, heavy drinking, and recreational drug abuse can impair sperm health. Additionally, an unhealthy diet, insufficient physical activity, and high-stress levels are associated with decreased sperm quality.
Medical Conditions: chronic debilitating conditions can affect sperm production and quality. Genetic disorders such as Klinefelter syndrome can also impact sperm development.
Environmental Factors: Contact with environmental or industrial toxins like pesticides and heavy metals can harm sperm quality. Moreover, extended exposure to elevated temperatures, such as those from hot tubs or saunas, can negatively impact sperm production.
Diagnosing Abnormal Sperm Parameters
Diagnosis typically involves a semen analysis, the primary test for sperm quality. A semen analysis evaluates several parameters, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. Here’s how the process generally works:
A semen sample is usually collected through masturbation. It’s crucial to follow specific instructions for sample collection to ensure accuracy.
The sample is analysed under a microscope to evaluate sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. The results help in diagnosing conditions like oligospermia, asthenozoospermia, or teratozoospermia.
Based on initial findings, additional blood tests like hormonal assessments, genetic screening, or ultrasounds may be suggested to pinpoint the causes of abnormal sperm parameters.
Abnormal Sperm Morphology Range
The World Health Organisation (WHO) provides reference ranges for sperm morphology. Generally, less than 4 % of sperm exhibiting normal morphology is considered abnormal. Treatments for abnormal sperm morphology are often tailored based on the degree of abnormality and its impact on fertility.
Treatment Options for Abnormal Sperm Parameters
Addressing abnormal sperm parameters involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and assisted reproductive technologies:
Lifestyle Modifications: Improving lifestyle factors can enhance sperm health. Recommendations include quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, adopting a balanced, antioxidant-rich diet, and managing stress. Regular exercise and avoiding exposure to toxins are also beneficial.
Medical Treatments: If hormonal imbalances or infections are identified, targeted treatments may be prescribed. For example, medications to address diseases and inflammation can improve sperm production and quality.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): For cases of abnormal sperm parameters, ART can provide solutions. Commonly employed methods include intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
In IVF, sperm with higher motility or morphology can be selected. In cases of significant abnormalities, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be utilised, where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
Surgical Interventions:
In cases where physical obstructions or varicocele are affecting sperm production, surgical procedures may be necessary to address these issues and improve sperm quality.
If you suspect you have abnormal sperm parameters or are struggling with fertility, it’s essential to seek expert advice.Dr Salem El Shawarby, a leading Reproductive Medicine and Infertility Consultant in Abu Dhabi is here to help.
With over 30 years of experience, Dr Salem El Shawarby specialises in diagnosing and managing complex fertility issues. He provides customised treatment plans designed to meet your specific needs, optimising your care and boosting your chances of successful conception.
Contact Dr Salem El Shawarby today to schedule a consultation and explore your options. His expertise and dedicated approach can provide the support and solutions you need to move forward confidently.
