Is sperm morphology low? Causes, norms, and treatment
🧬 Have you taken a sperm analysis test and the “morphology” is low? This does not mean there is no hope!
Appearance of sperm
In many men, the quantity of sperm is good, but the morphology — that is, the shape — is not within the normal range. In sperm analysis (spermiogram) results, the morphology indicator is of great importance in assessing reproductive health.
What is sperm?
What is sperm — it is a fluid produced by the male sex glands, released during sexual intercourse or arousal. For healthy spermatozoa to reach the female egg and fertilize it, not only their quantity but also their shape is important. For this reason, special attention is paid to the morphology indicator in spermiogram results.
What is sperm morphology and why is it important?
Sperm morphology is the shape of the spermatozoa, which directly affects fertilization ability. A spermatozoon with a correctly formed head, neck, and tail reaches the egg more easily. If morphology is significantly low, this condition is called teratozoospermia. Even so, this does not mean the condition is incurable — with the right approach, the indicators can be improved.
What is the norm for a spermiogram (sperm analysis)?
A spermiogram analysis is the primary examination for assessing male fertility. According to the standards of the World Health Organization (JSST/WHO), the main indicators are approximately as follows:
Morphology (normal shape): at least 4% according to Kruger criteria;
Concentration: at least 15 million spermatozoa per 1 ml;
Motility: at least 40%;
Volume: at least 1.4–1.5 ml;
Vitality: at least 58%.
Deviations from the norm are called by various terms: oligozoospermia (low sperm count), asthenozoospermia (low motility), teratozoospermia (low morphology), azoospermia (absence of spermatozoa).
Important note: one analysis is not a “verdict”
Considering a man “infertile” based on a single spermiogram result is scientifically incorrect. A spermiogram only assesses fertility potential. For this reason, doctors often recommend a repeat analysis at an interval of 7–10 days. Furthermore, having children depends not only on sperm — but also on the female factor, ovulation, age, and other factors.
Sperm towards the follicle
How to prepare for a sperm analysis (spermiogram)?
Preparation is important for the sperm analysis to provide an accurate result:
Abstain from sexual intercourse for 3–5 days (do not exceed 2 weeks);
Avoid alcoholic beverages and heat procedures (sauna, bathhouse);
Inform the doctor if there is inflammation or fever before the analysis.
📌 6 important tips to improve sperm and increase morphology
The following recommendations help to improve sperm quality and enhance sperm quality:
1️⃣Foods rich in antioxidants — carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, eggs, fish.
2️⃣Say no to tobacco, alcohol, and stress.3️⃣Stay away from saunas and bathhouses.4️⃣Take Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin C, E, D, Coenzyme Q10.5️⃣Regular physical activity — walking, swimming.6️⃣Most importantly: be patient! Sperm renews every 3 months — therefore, the results of lifestyle changes will be visible after approximately 3 months.
The most important rule in improving sperm quality
Although vitamins and lifestyle help, every case is individual. To determine the sperm percentage and find the exact cause, you must first consult a qualified specialist (andrologist or reproductologist). Taking medication or supplements with unknown dosages on your own can cause more harm than good.
At the EKO-IKSI clinic, husband and wife can undergo examination together. For details on the price of sperm analysis and preparation, sign up for a reproductologist consultation by phone:
📞 +998 (78) 555-55-65.
📨 Source: Telegram: @eko_iksi_clinic
