Low Sperm Motility: Myths and Facts for Couples

Q: Low Sperm Motility: Myths and Facts for Couples

Hello： There is a quality issue with the sperm. <br>It is advisable to abstain for 3 days before testing again. <br>Additionally, make sure that the underwear is not tight, avoid prolonged sitting, and refrain from smoking, as these factors may help improve the quality. <br>The r

Insufficient sperm motility?

Hello Doctor: My husband underwent a semen analysis, which revealed insufficient sperm motility (all other parameters were normal).
The examining physician explained that the sperm are not moving forward but are swimming in place.
After returning home, my husband mentioned that increasing the frequency of intercourse would improve our chances, believing that with enough attempts, one sperm would eventually succeed in moving forward.
Is my husband's understanding correct? (He insists that his perspective is right and is unwilling to return for a follow-up appointment.) Thank you.

A Jun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: There is a quality issue with the sperm.
It is advisable to abstain for 3 days before testing again.
Additionally, make sure that the underwear is not tight, avoid prolonged sitting, and refrain from smoking, as these factors may help improve the quality.
The reduced motility of the sperm does not mean they cannot move forward at all; they may just be slower and less effective.
Your husband's statement is partially correct; it does not mean that pregnancy is impossible, but frequent intercourse may lead to a decrease in both the quantity and quality of sperm, which does not necessarily make it easier to conceive.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/09/17

More Info

Low sperm motility, or asthenozoospermia, is a condition where sperm have reduced ability to move effectively. This can significantly impact fertility, as motility is crucial for sperm to reach and fertilize the egg. In your case, it seems that your husband has been informed that his sperm are not moving forward effectively, which is indeed a concern for conception.

To address your husband's belief that simply having more sexual intercourse will increase the chances of conception, it's important to clarify some misconceptions. While frequent ejaculation can help maintain sperm health and potentially improve motility over time, it does not guarantee that the sperm will be effective in fertilizing an egg if their motility is significantly impaired. The idea that "more attempts will lead to success" overlooks the biological realities of sperm function and the requirements for successful fertilization.

Sperm motility is influenced by various factors, including lifestyle, health conditions, and environmental factors. Stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can all negatively affect sperm quality. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or infections, can also lead to low motility. Therefore, it is crucial for your husband to consider these factors and possibly make lifestyle changes to improve his sperm health.

Moreover, the sperm maturation process takes about 64 to 72 days, meaning that any changes made today may take a couple of months to reflect in sperm quality. If your husband is experiencing low motility, it may be beneficial for him to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in male fertility. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and suggest potential treatments or lifestyle modifications that could enhance sperm motility.

It's also worth noting that while sperm motility is a critical factor, other aspects of sperm health, such as sperm count and morphology (shape), also play significant roles in fertility. Even if motility is low, if the sperm count is adequate and the morphology is normal, there may still be a chance for conception, albeit reduced.

In summary, while your husband’s approach of increasing sexual activity may seem logical, it does not address the underlying issue of low sperm motility. It is essential to focus on improving sperm health through lifestyle changes and possibly seeking medical advice. Encouraging him to revisit the doctor for a more thorough discussion about his sperm health and potential treatment options could be beneficial for both of you in your journey toward conception.

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