What is Asthenospermia?

Asthenospermia is a disorder characterised by sperm motility, or movement. For healthy sperm to reach and fertilise an egg, they must be able to pass through the female reproductive canal. Males suffering from asthenospermia have lower odds of spontaneous fertilisation since a significant fraction of their sperm are either sluggish or immobile.

While asthenospermia can be a substantial barrier for couples attempting to conceive, it's crucial to note that it is a diagnosable disorder with treatment options. Semen analysis is the initial step in assessing male reproductive potential. This test assesses several characteristics of sperm health, including count, morphology (shape), and motility. A private sperm analysis test can be an easy and discreet way for men to examine their sperm health and start a conversation with a doctor about any issues.

Understanding Sperm Motility

For effective fertilisation, sperm must undertake a difficult voyage via the female reproductive canal. High motility, or the ability to move effectively against the flow, is a prerequisite for this incredible accomplishment in sperm health. There are three main categories of sperm motility:

● Progressive motility:: These sperm swim vigorously in a straight line or with a significant forward advancement. This sort of sperm motility is necessary for reaching and fertilising the egg.

● Non-progressive motility: These sperm can wiggle their tails, but there is no distinct direction or forward movement. They are less likely to reach the egg than more motile sperm.

● Immotile: These sperm are absolutely immobile. Immotile sperm cannot fertilise an egg on their own.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published recommendations for semen analysis, which include indicators for healthy sperm motility. According to the most recent WHO recommendations, a semen sample is deemed asthenospermia if the total motile sperm (progressive and non-progressive) are fewer than 40% and the progressively motile sperm are less than 32%.

A private sperm analysis test can give useful information about these factors, allowing for the early diagnosis of potential motility difficulties. Early diagnosis is critical for researching treatment options and increasing the odds of a natural pregnancy.

Diagnosis of Asthenospermia

A semen analysis is essential for diagnosing asthenospermia. This test entails taking a semen sample, usually via masturbation, and submitting it to a laboratory for examination. The semen analysis assesses numerous factors important for male fertility, including:

● Sperm count: This determines the total number of sperm in a single ejaculate.

● Sperm morphology: This examines the shape and size of sperm, since abnormalities might impair their ability to swim and fertilise eggs.

● Sperm motility: This evaluates the movement of sperm, as discussed previously.

● Semen volume: This measures the total amount of fluid ejaculated.

● Semen pH: This determines the acidity or alkalinity of the semen since a healthy pH level is required for sperm survival and motility.

Private sperm analysis tests are a convenient alternative to routine clinic visits. These tests are routinely made available online, together with instructions for sample collection and discreet transportation to the laboratory. The findings are often supplied online and can be reviewed with a healthcare professional for interpretation.

However, it's important to emphasise that a semen analysis alone might not be enough to identify asthenospermia. In certain cases, doctors advise repeating the test two to three months after stopping the use of drugs in order to confirm the diagnosis and rule out temporary changes in sperm parameters. Once asthenospermia is diagnosed, recognising the underlying aetiology is critical to selecting the best treatment strategy.

Causes of Asthenospermia

Asthenospermia can arise for a number of reasons. Here we look at some of the most common causes:

Varicocele: This is a disorder in which the veins there get larger and more varicose. Varicoceles can raise scrotal temperature, which can adversely affect sperm motility and production.

Infection: Male reproductive system infections, including orchitis (inflammation of the testes) or epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), might compromise sperm's capacity for efficient movement.

Hormonal Imbalances: Imbalances in testosterone and other hormones can influence sperm generation and motility. Sperm that are weak and slow, for instance, may form from low testosterone levels.

Lifestyle Factors: Among the several lifestyle decisions one makes, smoking, too much alcohol, recreational drug usage, and obesity can all greatly affect sperm count. These elements could lead to motility problems and unfavourable surroundings for sperm generation.

Other Medical Conditions: Asthenospermia has also been linked to other medical disorders like cystic fibrosis, chronic diseases, and genetic anomalies.

Determining the best course of treatment depends on an awareness of the fundamental aetiology of asthenospermia. A complete medical examination by a doctor involving a semen analysis and maybe other tests can help identify the reason and direct the treatment approach. Sometimes a sperm analysis test is a useful first step that motivates men to seek more medical attention should the findings show any problems, such asthenospermia.

Treatment of Asthenospermia

The good news is that asthenospermia is frequently curable, with the precise treatment strategy depending on the underlying reason. Here, we look at some of the most frequent treatment options:

● Treating Varicoceles: If a varicocele is diagnosed as the cause of asthenospermia, surgical surgery may be indicated. This minimally invasive surgery tries to correct swollen veins and restore normal blood flow to the scrotum.

● Treating Infections: Antibiotic therapy is often indicated for illnesses affecting the male reproductive system. Sperm motility may improve gradually once the infection has been eliminated.

● Hormonal Therapy: In situations where hormonal abnormalities are causing asthenospermia, testosterone replacement treatment may be an option. This can help restore normal sperm production and motility.

● Lifestyle Modifications: Addressing poor living behaviours is an important part of treating asthenospermia. Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol use, keeping a healthy weight, and exercising frequently can all help increase sperm health, especially motility.

● Dietary Changes and Antioxidants: While research is ongoing, some studies show that making specific dietary adjustments, including eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and minimising processed foods, may boost sperm health. Furthermore, several studies show that antioxidants may increase sperm quality and motility. However, before taking any supplements, you should contact a healthcare expert.

While treatment aims to address the root problem, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. A doctor will develop a tailored treatment plan based on the patient's unique needs and circumstances. Importantly, some men with asthenospermia may still be able to conceive spontaneously, particularly if their motility concerns are minor. However, for couples who have substantial difficulty as a result of asthenospermia, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be explored.

It is important to underline that a diagnosis of asthenospermia does not invariably suggest infertility. Many men with asthenospermia can conceive spontaneously with appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and—in certain cases—lifestyle changes. A sperm analysis test might help if you think you have asthenospermia or if your fertility worries you. Still, you should consult a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation, talk about treatment options, and finally raise your odds of a healthy pregnancy.

Treatment of Asthenospermia

The degree of asthenospermia can greatly affect a couple's ability to conceive naturally. Here's a breakdown of the many levels of challenge:

Mild Asthenospermia: In certain circumstances, sperm motility may be somewhat lower than the WHO standards, yet a large proportion of sperm still display progressive movement. This may not be a significant barrier to spontaneous conception, and some couples may still become pregnant without help.

Moderate Asthenospermia: It occurs when a higher proportion of sperm display non-progressive motility or are fully immotile, making spontaneous conception more difficult. However, depending on other semen factors such as sperm count and morphology, some couples with mild asthenospermia may be able to conceive spontaneously with effort.

Severe Asthenospermia: When just a few sperm show progressive motility or the bulk are immotile, natural conception is extremely rare. In such circumstances, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) provide couples with alternate possibilities for conceiving.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

For couples experiencing major obstacles owing to asthenospermia, ART methods can pave the way to pregnancy. Here are two popular art options:

● Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): This minimally invasive approach entails processing a sperm sample to isolate motile sperm. The doctor then implants the prepared sperm straight into the woman's uterus around the time of ovulation, boosting the likelihood of fertilisation.

● In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): This is a more sophisticated operation that involves extracting eggs from a woman's ovaries, fertilising them with sperm in a laboratory setting, and then implanting the resultant embryos back into the uterus. Notably, a specific IVF procedure known as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be very beneficial for severe asthenospermia. During ICSI, a single healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg, eliminating the need for the sperm to travel alone.

Empowering Options for Overcoming Asthenospermia

Asthenospermia, while a hurdle for some couples trying to conceive, is a treatable condition. Early diagnosis through a semen analysis, followed by addressing the underlying cause, can significantly improve sperm motility and fertility potential. Sperm analysis tests can be a convenient first step, but a doctor's evaluation and personalised treatment plan remain crucial. Remember, with proper diagnosis and intervention, many men with asthenospermia can achieve a natural pregnancy. For couples facing greater challenges due to asthenospermia severity, ART procedures offer hope for building a family.

Wondering if asthenospermia might be affecting your fertility? Take control with our private sperm analysis test from the Male Fertility Clinic in London. Our convenient test can be a valuable first step in understanding your sperm health and fertility potential. Book an appointment today.