Asthenozoospermia treatment is commonly needed when men have low sperm motility. It means that their sperm do not move properly to reach and fertilize the egg. This condition can make it difficult for couples to get pregnant naturally. However, it’s important to know that the chances can be improved with the right medical care.
In this blog, we will discuss everything about asthenozoospermia treatment. We will include what it is, why it happens, how it is diagnosed, and more. We want to give you a clear understanding in simple terms to help you in your journey.
What is Asthenozoospermia?
Asthenozoospermia is a medical term which is used when sperm have poor movement or motility. In simple words, it means that the sperm are not able to swim properly or fast enough to reach and fertilize the egg. Men who have asthenozoospermia may face difficulties in achieving pregnancy with their partner.
Doctors usually identify this condition during a semen analysis test, where the number, shape, and movement of sperm are checked. However, asthenozoospermia does not always mean infertility but it can reduce the chances of conception and may need medical support or treatment.
Causes of Low Sperm Motility
Low sperm motility can happen for many reasons. Sometimes it can be related to health or lifestyle habits and sometimes to some medical issues. Here are some common causes which include the following:
- Infections – There are certain infections in the reproductive tract that can damage sperm or affect their movement.
- Varicocele – Swelling of veins in the scrotum can raise the temperature around the testicles and can lower the sperm quality.
- Lifestyle factors – Smoking, drinking too much alcohol, using drugs, or being overweight can reduce sperm motility.
- Heat exposure – Frequent use of hot tubs, saunas, or even tight clothing can increase heat around the testicles and affect sperm.
- Hormonal problems – Imbalance in male hormones can also reduce sperm production and movement.
- Genetic reasons – In some men, inherited conditions can affect how sperm are formed and how they move.
- Oxidative stress – High levels of toxins or poor diet can damage sperm cells.
Asthenozoospermia Symptoms
Asthenozoospermia usually does not show any major changes in the body. There are most men who look and feel healthy. The problem is noticed mainly when a couple has issues in conceiving. A semen analysis is the only way to confirm it.
Some signs can include the following:
- Difficulty in achieving pregnancy with partner
- Sperm that move very slowly or not in the right direction
- Low energy or weak movement of sperm under microscope
- No other visible symptoms in daily life
How is Asthenozoospermia Diagnosed?
Asthenozoospermia is mainly diagnosed through a semen analysis, where the sperm count, movement, and quality are checked. Doctors often repeat the test to confirm the results because sperm health can be different. In some cases, extra tests may be needed to understand the cause. After diagnosis, doctors suggest the best options for asthenozoospermia treatment depending on the condition.
Diagnosis may include the following:
- Semen analysis – This helps to check sperm motility and quality
- Repeat tests – This helps to confirm the accurate results
- Blood tests – This helps to check for any hormonal problems
- Ultrasound – This helps to look for any problems like blockages or varicocele
- Medical history review – This helps to identify lifestyle or health factors
Asthenozoospermia Treatment Options
Asthenozoospermia treatment depends on how serious the condition is and what is causing it. It’s important to make some lifestyle changes to improve sperm motility. However in other cases, medical procedures or assisted reproductive techniques may be required.
Here are some treatment options that may include the following:
- Lifestyle changes – It’s important to eat a healthy diet, quit smoking, reduce alcohol, manage stress, and regular exercise.
- Supplements or medicines – Antioxidants, vitamins, and certain medicines can improve sperm health.
- Treating underlying issues – Surgery for varicocele or treating infections that can affect sperm movement.
- Hormonal therapy – This is important if low hormone levels are the reason for poor motility.
- Assisted reproductive techniques (ART) – Options like IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) or IVF with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) are suggested when natural conception is difficult.
Tips to Improve Sperm Motility
Low sperm motility can make it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize the egg but simple lifestyle changes can help to improve it. These changes are often suggested along with asthenozoospermia treatment for better results.
Here are some tips that you can follow:
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Exercise regularly but avoid over-exercising.
- Keep the body cool and avoid tight underwear.
- Reduce stress with relaxation or meditation.
- Take doctor-recommended supplements if required.
Final Words
Asthenozoospermia is a condition where sperm motility is low and this makes it difficult for natural conception to happen. In this blog, we have explained what asthenozoospermia is, its causes, treatment options, Asthenozoospermia treatment, and more. There are many couples who can get pregnant with proper diagnosis, advanced fertility treatments, and healthy lifestyle changes.
At Risaa IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, our Senior IVF Specialist, guides couples and helps them with infertility issues. If you would like to know more or consult our team, you can email us at doctor@risaaivf.com or call us at 95555 44421 / 22 / 23. We are always here to support you on your journey to parenthood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is IUI effective for asthenozoospermia?
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) may work if sperm motility is only slightly low. For moderate or severe cases, IVF with ICSI is usually recommended for better chances of success.
Does asthenozoospermia mean permanent infertility?
Not at all. Many men with asthenozoospermia can still father children with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. Fertility treatments provide strong support in such cases.
Can stress cause asthenozoospermia?
Yes, stress and poor lifestyle habits can negatively affect sperm motility. Managing stress through yoga, meditation, and healthy living often helps.
Is pregnancy possible with asthenozoospermia without IVF?
Yes, if the condition is mild and lifestyle changes or medicines improve motility, natural conception is possible. But in most moderate to severe cases, assisted reproductive treatments are advised.