Sperm motility

Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to move efficiently. This is one of the several qualities that are assessed during a semen analysis and it is considered a critical factor for fertility.

Overview

Sperm motility is typically measured as the percentage of moving sperm cells in a semen sample and is divided into two categories: progressive motility and non-progressive motility. Progressive motility refers to sperm cells that are moving in a straight line or large circles, while non-progressive motility refers to sperm cells that do not move forward despite moving.

Factors affecting sperm motility

Several factors can affect sperm motility, including temperature, hydration, and the presence of certain chemicals. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use can also negatively impact sperm motility. Certain medical conditions, such as varicoceles, infections, and hormone imbalances, can also affect sperm motility.

Importance in fertility

Sperm motility is a critical factor in natural conception. The sperm must be able to swim against the current within the female reproductive tract to reach and fertilize the egg. Low sperm motility, or asthenozoospermia, is a common cause of male infertility.

Treatment for low sperm motility

Treatment for low sperm motility depends on the underlying cause. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, can improve sperm motility in some cases. Medications and surgical interventions may also be recommended in certain cases. Assisted reproductive technologies, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF), can also be effective treatments for low sperm motility.

See also

• Semen analysis
• Male infertility
• In vitro fertilization
• Intrauterine insemination