Optimal sperm quality is an essential determinant of male fertility. Optimal sperm health may improve the probability of a successful conception. Understanding the characteristics of healthy sperm can help men maintain their reproductive health and increase their chances of having children.
What are the signs of healthy sperm?
Sperm health is evaluated primarily based on morphology (shape), motility (movement), and quantity. These three factors have a significant impact on male fertility in general and sperm health.
Quantity
As sperm production increases, so does the probability that sperm will successfully reach and fertilize the ovum during sexual intercourse. Sperm quantity that is adequate improves the probability of successful fertilization.
As a general guideline, the sperm count considered normal for fertility is approximately 15 million sperm per milliliter of ejaculate. It is significant to note that a man's sperm production may vary depending on his age, general health, and environmental factors.
In addition, some men may have almost no sperm in their semen. The multiple causes of this disorder, often referred to as azoospermia, include hormonal imbalances, ejaculation issues, and structural or functional abnormalities of the testicles.
Motility (movement)
The capacity of sperm to travel in the direction of the egg is known as sperm mobility. Sperm has to pass through the female reproductive canal in order to reach the egg and fertilize it, so this is crucial to the fertilization process.
A good motility sperm will be able to move swiftly and precisely until they successfully fertilize an egg. It is more likely that fertilization will be effective as a result. If the sperm has motility issues, including delayed movement, moving but not advancing, or not moving at all, fertilization becomes difficult.
Morphology (shape)
Sperm morphology refers to the shape and physical structure of the sperm. Normal sperm shape:
- The head is oval or round and proportional in size
- There is a visible neck between the sperm's head and tail
- The sperm's tail should be long and straight, allowing for more effective motility
Abnormal sperm shape:
- Large or distorted heads make it hard for them to get through the membrane of the egg cell.
- A twisted or double tail can make it more difficult for the sperm to advance smoothly
- Defects in structure, such an excess or lack of petals on the sperm head
How to identify healthy sperm
A sperm analysis can help you determine whether or not your sperm is healthy. When a couple is having problems conceiving, the doctor usually recommends a sperm analysis to check the man's health status.
A sperm analysis is a laboratory test in which a semen sample is collected. The standard procedure for collecting samples for analysis involves masturbation and then putting them in a sterile container. The results of sperm analysis can tell you how healthy your sperm are. Sperm counts of at least 15 million per millilitre and at least one-third of the sperm moving forward are typical of normal outcomes.
You can schedule an appointment with a doctor once you have received the results of the semen analysis test. The doctor will explain and provide further recommendations based on your condition.
If you have any questions concerning sperm health or male fertility, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr. Monica Salim
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