Inability to conceive can be a result of both male and female infertility.
The three main factors that make a sperm healthy are:
1. Morphology or shape of sperm
2. Sperm motility or the movement of sperm
3. The number of sperm in ejaculate (sperm count)
The motility of sperm can be tested with the help of spermiogram. Spermiogram or semen analysis is a test done to analyse the male sperm. In this test, both the fluid (semen) and the cells (sperm) are analysed. Spermiogram is also done to make sure that there is no sperm left in semen after the procedure of vasectomy.
WHAT IS A SPERM?
Sperm is the male reproductive cell which fuses with and fertilizes the female reproductive cell to create a new life. The production of sperms in male is characterised by a number of factors such as age, food habits, lifestyle, etc.
WHAT IS SPERM MOTILITY?
Sperm motility refers to the ability of the sperm to swim through the woman’s reproductive tract and fertilise the egg. A healthy sperm swims at a speed of around 25 micrometres per second. Anything less than that is considered to be a sign of poor sperm motility which is one of main reasons behind male infertility. While some sperms have a slow movement, some are completely immobile. The exact causes of sperm motility can vary from person to person. While it is mainly genetic, sometimes it can be caused by one’s lifestyle.
TREATMENT
While the doctor will guide you the best, there are some changes one can make in lifestyle to increase the motility of the sperm:
Regular Exercise
Staying fit can considerably increase the motility of the sperm. According to doctors, a person whose BMI is more than 25, is likely to have less motile sperms.
Quit Smoking & Alcohol
Alcohol and nicotine are two of the major reasons of bad sperm motility. If quitting is impossible, try to reduce the consumption.
Avoid Radiation
Try to keep away from radiation, especially from laptops. Placing your laptop between your legs or on your lap can affect your fertility.
Eat Healthy
Avoid eating junk and processed foods. Add healthier items to your diet and stay hydrated.
