Whenever the topic of fertility comes up, it is always centered around the female reproductive system. But it is equally important to check the male partner’s fertility parameters as\n male factor infertility \naccounts for 40–50% of infertility cases worldwide. \nA couple trying to conceive or planning for the future must know the basics of sperm motility, count, and morphology. Sperm is really very fascinating. Not all the sperm reach the egg for fertilization. It depends on the quality of sperm for it to reach the egg and fertilize. Even if the woman is fertile, it is essential for the sperm quality and motility to be good for her to conceive. \nPoor sperm quality \nis a cause of concern. Three main points to know about sperm  health are: \n1. Sperm count  in semen \n2. Motility - movement of sperm \n3. Morphology - size and shape of the sperm  \nIf sperm count, motility, and morphology are all within normal ranges, the chances of fertilization are quite high. \n
\nFactors that affect the sperm count. \na) Exposure to heat for long hours \nb) Chemicals, pesticides, and other toxic substances \n     affect sperm count\nc) Heavy smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, etc.\nd) Chronic diseases \ne) Health conditions like varicocele, hormonal imbalance \ne) Advanced age \nf) Stress levels \ng) Ejaculatory duct obstruction \nh) Congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens \nThe size, shape, and motility of sperm are therefore essential for successful fertilization. The factors mentioned above can impact the sperm and their movements.  Lifestyle changes like proper diet,  exercise, avoiding stress, vitamin C, and vitamin E supplementation can help to improve motility. \nIf the sperm neck is bent or the tail portion is small, it will not be able to reach the egg for fertilization. It gets affected due to infections in the reproductive tract,  exposure to toxins, poor diet and habits, or it can be genetic. \nSperm vitality measures the proportion of live sperm and is assessed, especially if the sperm number is low. Normal values are ≥54%, and reduced vitality can impair fertilization. The integrity of the cell membranes helps identify if the immotile sperm are dead or alive. \nAlthough the semen volume does not directly affect sperm, a normal volume is necessary to create a suitable environment for sperm movement. Garbhagudi is the best male infertility treatment clinic in Bangalore.\nThe semen sample for analysis should be collected in a clean, wide-mouthed container that is nontoxic.  It should be analyzed in the Andrology laboratory within 30 minutes, as motility and other vital parameters decline over time. GarbhaGudi is the best andrology and \nsemen analysis\n centre.\nLifestyle Tips to Improve Sperm Health: \nEating nutritious food: \nFood enriched with antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, green leafy vegetables, fish, nuts, and berries. It is good to avoid processed foods, trans fats, and sugary foods. \nExercising regularly: \nFrequent exercise will enhance blood circulation, which will enhance the health of sperm.\nKeeping the environment cool: \nSteer clear of hot tubs and saunas, avoid wearing tight underwear, avoid using a laptop on your lap, and prevent prolonged exposure to heat. These will assist in regulating the temperature of the testicles.\nHealthy Lifestyle: \nGive up smoking, drink less alcohol, abstain from recreational drugs, and stay away from hazardous environments.\nFrequent examinations \nwill aid in the early detection of any fertility-related problems, enabling prompt treatment to promote early conception. \nMaintaining Stress Levels: \nKeep a check on your stress levels. Meditation, yoga, and walking will help to reduce stress and support sperm health. \nRegular Check-ups: \nThis will help in identifying any issues with regard to fertility earlier,  so that timely treatment supports early conception. \nWhen should a couple seek medical advice? \nA couple aged below 35 years of age, trying to conceive for 12 months of uninterrupted intercourse unsuccessfully, should immediately consult a fertility specialist. If a couple is aged above 35 years of age, they should consult a fertility specialist after 6 months of uninterrupted intercourse and have not achieved pregnancy. \nBoth partners should maintain a healthy lifestyle. Smoking, consuming excessive alcohol should be stopped while trying to conceive. A nutritious diet will help with conception. Having intercourse regularly following the above factors will definitely help.  But if unsuccessful, consulting a fertility specialist immediately will solve any issues related to fertility. Age is very important. More the delay in consultations, more problems.\nAlong with the female, the male also must go in for semen analysis as an initial investigation. Many health problems can be resolved with timely treatment and simple medication. \nSemen analysis, when combined with a detailed medical and sexual history and a thorough physical examination, provides a comprehensive evaluation of a male's fertility potential. This approach guides the treatment of both the individual and the couple seeking relief from their infertility.\n 

Male infertility is important for achieving a positive pregnancy. \n

Common causes for male infertility are low sperm count, varicocele, sperm motility, hormonal issues, lifestyle, etc. GarbhaGudi conducts tests that help in diagnosing the problems associated with infertility.\n

GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, Bangalore, offers various male infertility treatments such as TESA, PESA, etc.

Couples under 35 who have been trying to conceive for \n12 months\n, and couples above 35 who have been trying for \n6 months\n, should seek expert help.

8 Signs of Healthy Sperm