Understanding Asthenozoospermia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Asthenozoospermia is one of the leading concerns in male fertility issues. This condition is characterized by reduced or absent sperm motility — the ability of sperm to move efficiently toward the egg. Poor sperm mobility significantly impairs fertilization and reduces the chances of natural conception. In this article, we will explore asthenozoospermia in detail, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What is Asthenozoospermia?

Asthenozoospermia is a medical condition in which sperm have low motility or are completely immotile. Optimal sperm movement is essential for fertilization, as sperm must swim through cervical mucus, pass through the uterus, and reach the fallopian tubes to encounter the egg. When sperm are unable to move properly, the likelihood of reaching and fertilizing the egg becomes very low, thereby reducing the chances of natural pregnancy.

Read more: Azoospermia: Definition, Causes, and How to Overcome

Causes of Asthenozoospermia

1. Genetic Factors

Certain genetic mutations or abnormalities can affect sperm structure and function, including their motility. Genetics plays a key role in determining sperm quality and movement.

2. Infections of the Reproductive Tract

Infections such as prostatitis or urinary tract infections can cause inflammation that damages sperm and impairs their movement, leading to asthenozoospermia.

3. Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

Exposure to toxic substances such as pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals can damage sperm and reduce motility, thereby affecting fertilization capacity.

4. Radiation

Exposure to radiation, whether environmental or from certain medical procedures, can impair sperm motility and contribute to asthenozoospermia.

5. Unhealthy Lifestyle

Habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet can negatively impact sperm quality. High-temperature exposure, such as from working in hot environments or frequent sauna use, may also reduce sperm motility.

6. Medical Conditions such as Varicocele

Varicocele — an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum — has been associated with reduced sperm motility. This condition disrupts normal blood flow and can raise testicular temperature, negatively impacting sperm production and quality.

Image source: Freepik

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Clinically, asthenozoospermia often presents without noticeable symptoms until a couple experiences difficulty conceiving. Since there are no direct physical signs, the condition is usually discovered during fertility assessments. To diagnose asthenozoospermia, a semen analysis is conducted in a laboratory. This analysis evaluates the proportion of motile sperm versus immotile sperm.

Based on the results, the severity of asthenozoospermia is classified as mild, moderate, or severe. These findings are crucial for determining the best treatment plan, which may involve lifestyle changes, medical therapy, or assisted reproductive technologies to improve the chances of successful conception.

Read more: What Is Semen? Understanding Its Function, Characteristics, and Differences from Sperm

Treatment for Asthenozoospermia

The treatment approach for asthenozoospermia depends on its underlying cause and severity. Some common treatment strategies include:

• Lifestyle Modifications:
  Adopting a healthier lifestyle is the first step toward improving sperm quality. Reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, avoiding high heat exposure, and following a balanced diet can help enhance sperm motility.
• Medical Treatment:
  If asthenozoospermia is caused by an infection or conditions like varicocele, medical treatment or surgery may be necessary. Antibiotics may be used to treat infections, while surgery can correct varicocele.
• Hormone Therapy:
  In some cases, hormonal imbalances may contribute to poor sperm motility. Hormone therapy may be recommended to normalize hormone levels and improve sperm quality.
• Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
  If conventional treatments are ineffective, ART options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used. These techniques help select and process motile sperm to improve fertilization outcomes.

Image source: Freepik

Additional Ways to Manage Asthenozoospermia

Beyond standard treatment, there are several additional approaches to manage asthenozoospermia:

• Psychological Support and Counseling:
  Stress and anxiety can negatively impact sperm quality. Psychological support and counseling can help manage stress and improve treatment outcomes.
• Increased Antioxidant Intake:
  Consuming foods rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium may protect sperm from oxidative damage and improve motility.
• Regular Exercise:
  Routine physical activity helps boost blood circulation and overall reproductive health, including sperm quality.
• Avoiding Harmful Chemical Exposure:
  Limiting exposure to harmful chemicals like pesticides and heavy metals can help preserve sperm health.

Read more: Normozoospermia: Definition, Causes, and Its Role in Male Fertility

Asthenozoospermia is a challenge that many couples may face when trying to conceive. However, with accurate diagnosis and the right treatment strategy, the possibility of achieving pregnancy remains. Individuals experiencing this condition are encouraged to consult a reproductive specialist for optimal care.

For more information about reproductive health or fertility programs, consult with a professional from Morula IVF. Morula IVF is a fertility clinic offering expert consultations and comprehensive care from experienced reproductive specialists. With over 26 years of experience, the dedicated team at Morula IVF is here to support couples in their journey to parenthood. Visit the official Morula IVF website for more information or to book a consultation.

References:

• ScienceDirect. (n.d.). Asthenospermia. Accessed in 2024.
• Turner, T. T., & Lysiak, J. J. (2009). Oxidative stress: A common factor in testicular dysfunction. Human Reproduction Update, 17(5), 684-701. Accessed in 2024.
• Johnson, L., Zaneveld, L. J. D., & Polakoski, K. L. (2020). Asthenozoospermia and its management. Andrology, 10(6), 13463. Accessed in 2024.
• FertilTree. (n.d.). Understanding Asthenozoospermia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. Accessed in 2024.