Understanding low sperm motility
Low sperm motility, also known as asthenozoospermia, refers to a condition where a man’s sperm have reduced ability to move properly. Sperm motility is a crucial factor in male fertility as it determines the sperm’s ability to travel through the female reproductive tract and reach the egg for fertilization.
Motility is typically measured as a percentage of moving sperm in a semen sample. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a normal sperm motility range is 40% or higher. Anything below this threshold is considered low sperm motility.
It’s important to note that low sperm motility does not necessarily mean infertility. Many men with low motility can still conceive naturally, but their chances are reduced compared to those with normal motility levels.
Causes of low sperm motility
Several factors can contribute to low sperm motility, including:
- Varicocele: This is an enlargement of the veins in the scrotum, leading to increased testicular temperature, which can impair sperm production and motility.
- Infections: Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or non-sexually transmitted infections like epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) can affect sperm motility.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and obesity can all negatively impact sperm motility.
- Environmental exposures: Exposure to certain chemicals, toxins, or radiation can harm sperm motility.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can interfere with sperm motility.
- Genetic factors: In some cases, low sperm motility may be due to genetic abnormalities or chromosomal defects.
- Aging: As men age, their sperm motility tends to decrease.
Signs and symptoms of low sperm motility
Low sperm motility itself does not typically cause any noticeable symptoms. However, it can contribute to male infertility or difficulty conceiving. If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for over a year without success, it’s recommended to seek medical advice and undergo a semen analysis to evaluate sperm motility and other parameters.
How to get pregnant with low sperm motility naturally
If you have low sperm motility, there are several natural strategies you can try to improve your chances of conceiving:
Lifestyle changes:
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
- Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga
- Avoid exposure to environmental toxins and excessive heat
Supplements:
- Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc may help improve sperm motility
- Herbs like ashwagandha, ginseng, and maca root have been traditionally used to enhance male fertility
Timing intercourse:
- Have intercourse during your partner’s fertile window, which is typically a few days before and on the day of ovulation
- Use ovulation prediction kits or track cervical mucus changes to identify the fertile period
Position during intercourse:
- Try positions that allow deeper penetration, as this can help the sperm reach the egg more easily
Low sperm motility treatment options
If natural methods are unsuccessful, your healthcare provider may recommend various treatments for low sperm motility, depending on the underlying cause. Some potential options include:
Medication:
- Antibiotics for treating infections
- Hormonal therapy to regulate hormone levels affecting sperm production
- Antioxidant supplements to improve sperm motility
Surgical interventions:
- Varicocele repair (varicocelectomy) for treating varicocele
- Obstructive surgery to correct blockages in the male reproductive tract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART):
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI): Sperm are directly inserted into the uterus during ovulation
- In vitro fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus
High sperm count but low motility – what it means
In some cases, a man may have a high sperm count but low motility. This condition is often referred to as “high count, low motility.” While a high sperm count increases the chances of conception, low motility can still make it difficult for the sperm to reach and fertilize the egg.
If you have high sperm count but low motility, your healthcare provider may recommend techniques like IUI or IVF to improve your chances of conception. These procedures can help bypass the need for sperm to travel through the female reproductive tract.
IVF success rate with low sperm count and motility
For couples struggling with low sperm count and motility, IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) can be an effective treatment option. During IVF, the egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish, allowing fertilization to occur outside the body.
The success rate of IVF with low sperm count and motility can vary depending on factors such as the woman’s age, the severity of the male factor infertility, and the specific IVF protocol used. However, advancements in assisted reproductive technologies have significantly improved the chances of conception for couples facing these challenges.
According to a study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility, the IVF success rate for couples with low sperm motility (less than 32%) was around 20-25%. While this rate is lower than those with normal sperm motility, IVF still offers a viable option for many couples.
It’s important to work closely with a fertility specialist to determine the best course of action based on your individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Low sperm motility can be a challenging condition, but it does not necessarily mean infertility. By understanding the causes, implementing lifestyle changes, and exploring appropriate treatment options, many couples can improve their chances of conceiving.
If you and your partner are struggling with low sperm motility, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice and guidance. With the right approach and support, achieving a successful pregnancy is often possible.
If you’re experiencing low sperm motility and having difficulty conceiving, our team of fertility experts at InviCure IVF Centre is here to help. We offer comprehensive diagnostic services, personalized treatment plans, and the latest assisted reproductive technologies to improve your chances of starting a family. Book a consultation today by filling up the contact form. Don’t let low sperm motility stand in the way of your dream of becoming a parent. Take the first step towards a successful pregnancy with our expert care and support.