During the trying to conceive, many men unexpectedly find themselves facing the challenge of oligoasthenospermia – having a low sperm count, poor sperm motility, which directly affects their fertility. However, this is not an irreversible condition. Through scientific lifestyle adjustments, targeted nutritional support, and necessary medical intervention, the quantity and quality of sperm can be significantly improved, and the success rates of natural conception or assisted reproduction also increase accordingly.
Main symptoms
Oligoasthenospermia is usually diagnosed through semen analysis. The main manifestations include:
- Insufficient sperm count (oligospermia): The number of sperm per milliliter of semen is less than 15 million.
- Low sperm motility (weak sperm): The proportion of forward-moving sperm is less than 32%.
Common causes of formation
- Genetic factors
These include Klinefelter syndrome, and sperm DNA damage, etc.
- Lifestyle influences
Long-term smoking can reduce sperm count by 17.5%. Excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity or underweight, local high temperature in the testicles (such as wearing tight underwear frequently, frequent sauna sessions), and excessive vigorous exercise can all have a negative impact on sperm quality.
- Abnormalities in testicular structure and function
These include varicocele of the spermatic cord, testicular trauma or tumors, previous infections (such as mumps), and a history of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
- Ejaculatory dysfunction
Such as retrograde ejaculation, obstruction of the vas deferens, hypospadias, or prostatitis.
Systemic intervention and improvement approaches
Although oligoasthenospermia may affect natural conception, comprehensive intervention can still effectively enhance fertility.
- Lifestyle adjustments
- Immediately quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, and avoid drug abuse.
- Maintain a healthy weight (BMI 18.5 – 24.9), and adhere to 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Wear loose and breathable underwear to avoid prolonged exposure of the testicles to high temperatures.
- Learn stress management techniques and ensure adequate sleep.
- Targeted nutritional support
- Vitamin B12: Supports sperm production and repair
- Natural antioxidants such as lycopene: Reduces oxidative damage and improves sperm quality
- Zinc and selenium: Improves testosterone levels and sperm motility, and increases conception rate
- Medical Treatment Options
- Therapeutic Measures: Such as surgical correction of varicocele, anti-infection treatment, hormone regulation, etc.
- Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Choose artificial insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) based on the severity.
In conclusion, there is no need to be overly anxious or self-blaming when dealing with oligoasthenospermia. The key is to act as early as possible: start optimizing your lifestyle from today, supplement scientifically supported nutrients, and develop a personalized plan under the guidance of a professional doctor. Many couples have successfully improved their fertility through these systematic efforts and welcomed their own babies.