Asthenozoospermia Types, Causes & Treatment

What Is Asthenozoospermia?

Asthenozoospermia is a condition marked by reduced sperm motility—a critical component for successful fertilization that affects nearly 50% of infertility cases attributed to male factors. Globally, infertility impacts 8–12% of couples, with Asthenozoospermia being one of the most common causes of infertility in male. Healthy sperm exhibit progressive motility, enabling them to efficiently navigate the female reproductive tract and reach the egg. When this ability is compromised, the chances of fertilization drop significantly. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments equips couples to address fertility challenges related to Asthenozoospermia effectively. 

To understand the impact of asthenozoospermia, it’s helpful to break down sperm anatomy: 

1. The Head: Contains genetic material critical for conception. 
2. The Midpiece: Acts as the sperm’s powerhouse, producing energy to fuel its movement. 
3. The Tail: Propels the sperm forward. 

In cases of asthenozoospermia, energy production in the midpiece is often compromised, resulting in sluggish or erratic movement. This hinders the sperm’s ability to navigate the journey through cervical mucus, the uterine cavity, and into the fallopian tubes where fertilization occurs. 

Asthenozoospermia Causes

Several factors, ranging from physiological conditions to lifestyle choices, can cause or contribute to asthenozoospermia. 

1. Inflammatory Conditions

Inflammation in the reproductive organs, such as the sperm ducts or prostate gland, can introduce harmful microorganisms that damage sperm motility. Conditions like epididymitis or prostatitis are common culprits, as they compromise the sperm’s ability to move efficiently. 

2. Varicocele

A varicocele refers to the abnormal enlargement of veins within the scrotum. This condition can elevate testicular temperature, negatively impacting both sperm production and motility. Varicocele is one of the most frequently diagnosed causes of asthenozoospermia and often requires surgical correction for improvement. 

3. Abnormal Semen Liquefaction

Normal semen undergoes a liquefaction process that allows sperm to move freely. In cases of abnormal liquefaction, the semen remains thick, creating an environment that obstructs sperm movement and hampers motility. 

4. Genetic Factors

Chromosomal abnormalities, particularly in sex chromosomes, can affect sperm production and quality. For instance, conditions like Klinefelter syndrome (a genetic disorder that occurs when a male is born with an extra X chromosome) may reduce sperm count and motility. 

5. Immune Response

Proteins produced by the immune system called Antisperm Antibodies (ASA) can directly inhibit sperm motility, making it difficult for sperm to swim through the female reproductive tract and reach the egg. 

6. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Unhealthy lifestyle habits play a significant role in reducing sperm motility. These include: 

• Smoking, which introduces toxins that impair sperm health. 

• Excessive alcohol consumption, which affects hormone levels critical for sperm production. 

• Poor dietary habits, leading to nutrient deficiencies that affect sperm function. 

• Prolonged exposure to heat or pressure in the pelvic area (e.g., from driving, cycling, or certain occupational hazards). 

Additionally, exposure to environmental pollutants, pesticides, and radiation can exacerbate the risk of asthenozoospermia.

Asthenozoospermia Symptoms

Asthenozoospermia is often asymptomatic, meaning most men remain unaware of the condition until they encounter difficulty conceiving. The absence of physical symptoms can make it challenging to detect without medical intervention. 

The most common method for identifying reduced sperm motility is through a male fertility test —  semen analysis, which categorizes sperm motility as: 

• Progressive Motility: Sperm moving in straight lines or large circles. 

• Non-Progressive Motility: Sperm displaying irregular or erratic movement. 

A significant reduction in progressive motility or an overall motility rate below normal indicates asthenozoospermia.  

Asthenozoospermia Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the most effective reduced sperm motility treatment approach. The diagnostic process typically involves: 

1. Semen Analysis
   A semen sample is collected and examined under a microscope to evaluate parameters such as sperm count, motility, morphology, and vitality. A progressive motility rate below 50% or a sperm speed of less than 25 micrometers per second within the female reproductive tract confirms asthenozoospermia. 

1. Additional  Male Fertility Tests
   Depending on the suspected underlying cause, further diagnostic tests may include: 

• Hormonal assessments to check for imbalances. 

• Scrotal ultrasound to identify varicocele or other abnormalities. 
• Genetic testing for chromosomal issues. 

Asthenozoospermia Treatment

Treatment is tailored to address the specific cause of the condition. 

1. Lifestyle Modifications

Making healthier lifestyle choices can significantly improve sperm motility. Key changes include: 

• Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption. 

• Adopting a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. 

• Regular exercise to improve overall health and hormone balance. 

• Avoiding prolonged exposure to heat or pressure on the pelvic area. 

2. Hormonal Therapy

In cases where hormonal imbalances are detected, hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed to restore normal function and improve motility. 

3. Surgical Intervention

For conditions like varicocele, surgical repair can effectively enhance sperm motility. Procedures such as varicocelectomy improve blood flow and regulate testicular temperature, creating a healthier environment for sperm production. 

4. Medications

Certain medications, including antioxidants or drugs designed to enhance sperm function, may be recommended based on the diagnosis. 

5. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

For severe cases of reduced sperm motility, ART offers alternative pathways to conception: 

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Sperm and egg are combined outside the body, bypassing natural motility challenges. 
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A type of artificial insemination, a single sperm is injected directly into the egg, ensuring fertilization despite motility issues. 

Cost of Asthenozoospermia Treatment

The cost of treating asthenozoospermia varies widely depending on the chosen method: 

• Lifestyle Changes: Incur minimal costs, primarily related to diet and exercise. 

• Hormonal Therapy: Moderately priced, depending on the duration of treatment. 

• Surgical Interventions: Costs vary but can be significant for procedures like varicocelectomy. 

• ART: Assisted reproductive techniques like IVF and ICSI offer advanced solutions for couples facing fertility challenges due to factors like Asthenozoospermia, providing hope and the possibility of starting a family. 

Asthenozoospermia, or reduced sperm motility, is a common and treatable cause of male infertility. Couples navigating infertility often experience emotional stress. Seeking support from counselors, support groups, or fertility specialists can help manage the emotional challenges associated with the condition. By identifying its causes and exploring appropriate treatment options, individuals and couples can overcome fertility challenges and achieve their dreams of starting a family. With advancements in medical technology, solutions like IVF and ICSI provide hope even in severe cases.