The exact causes of asthenozoospermia are not known. However, there are a number of factors that can influence sperm motility:
- Alterations of the spermatozoon: There are genetic alterations that affect the sperm flagellum. Therefore, they alter their mobility. In fact, in some cases, they can cause total asthenozoospermia.
- Alterations of the seminal pathway: Any alteration in the testicles, epididymis, vas deferens or ejaculators, can affect mobility.
- Varicocele: It refers to the presence of varicose veins in the blood vessels that supply the testicle.
- Toxic substances: Tobacco, alcohol or drugs can influence. Similarly, exposure to fertilizers or pesticides also influences.
- Oncological treatments: Radio and chemotherapy are aggressive techniques against sperm.
In the same way, Age and diet are very important factors. It has been shown that sperm motility decreases after 50 years. In addition, eating correctly is essential. The absence of vitamins and antioxidants may be related to asthenozoospermia.
The body temperature it is a determining factor. The testicles should be two degrees less than the rest of the body. Sperm motility can be reduced if it is altered. This can be caused by wearing very tight clothes, use of saunas, and so on.
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How is it detected?
The test to analyze sperm is the semengram. It is also known as a spermiogram. It allows us to study the movement of sperm. To diagnose asthenozoospermia, at least two seminograms are needed. When a semengram is performed, two types of mobility are evaluated:
- Total mobility. It refers to all sperm that show signs of movement. That is, it includes those that do not move, but move.
- Progressive mobility. It only takes into account those who are able to move.
To specify, we emphasize that astenozoospermia occurs when less than 32% of your sperm have progressive mobility, or when less than 40% have total mobility.
However, it is also necessary to perform a correct physical examination. In addition, hormonal analyzes must be carried out. Knowing the values of FSH, LH and testosterone can guide us in the diagnosis.
Being a father with asthenozoospermia
Astenozoospermia It is usually a cause of infertility. However, there are treatments that allow you to be a father despite this condition. The objective is to obtain a sample of sperm with sufficient mobility to fertilize the ovum through assisted reproduction techniques.
There are different treatments according to the degree of asthenozoospermia. The most prominent is ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm microinjection). It consists of introducing a sperm into each oocyte. Thus, the chances of fertilization increase.
Second, there are other methods that focus on improving mobility itself. Mainly, they are food oriented. It involves taking producer rich in amino acids such as L-carnitine and antioxidants.
The ideal is to detect and correct the cause of asthenozoospermia. On the contrary, this is not always possible. Other techniques, such as in vitro fertilization or artificial insemination, can be useful.
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In conclusion
Astenozoospermia is a problem that decreases the chances of fertility in men. Therefore, it is necessary to know the factors that can cause it in order to reduce or avoid them. Equally, it is necessary to be aware of its importance to reduce the impact it has on men and their self-esteem.
