How to determine if you have weak sperm
Nov 13, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
Sex hormones are crucial for the normal function of the male reproductive system. Testosterone is the primary male hormone, promoting the production and maturation of sperm, as well as influencing the development and function of reproductive organs. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) regulate the testes' sperm production and the secretion of androgens. Excessively high levels of prolactin may interfere with the synthesis and secretion of testosterone, thereby affecting sperm production.
Generally, the following methods can be used to determine whether a man has asthenospermia: a six-item semen hormone test, ultrasound examination of the reproductive system, antisperm antibody testing, semen biochemical analysis, and dynamic observation. Details are as follows:
1. Six-item semen hormone test: Sex hormones play a crucial role in the normal functioning of the male reproductive system. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, which promotes the production and maturation of sperm and also affects the development and function of reproductive organs. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) regulate the testes' sperm production function and androgen secretion. Elevated prolactin levels may interfere with testosterone synthesis and secretion, affecting sperm production.
2. Ultrasound examination of the reproductive system: Ultrasound imaging can clearly visualize the structure of the male reproductive organs, including the testes, epididymis, and spermatic cord. The testes are the site of sperm production, the epididymis is where sperm mature and are stored, and the blood vessels within the spermatic cord supply blood to the reproductive organs. Ultrasound can detect structural abnormalities in these organs, such as small testicular volume, epididymal cysts, and varicocele, which may affect sperm production, maturation, and transport, thereby leading to asthenospermia.
3. Antisperm antibody testing: In some cases, a male's immune system may produce antisperm antibodies. These antibodies recognize antigens on the surface of sperm, causing sperm agglutination or immobilization, which affects sperm motility and fertilization capacity. Conditions such as inflammation, trauma, or surgery in the reproductive system may expose sperm to the immune system, triggering an immune response and the production of antisperm antibodies.
4. Semen biochemical analysis: Certain biochemical components in semen are also very important for sperm function and vitality. For example, seminal fructose, secreted by the seminal vesicles, provides energy for sperm. If the level of seminal fructose is too low, sperm may exhibit reduced motility due to insufficient energy. Alpha-glucosidase, primarily secreted by the epididymis, participates in the maturation of sperm, and abnormal levels may also affect sperm quality.
5. Dynamic observation: Sperm quality may be influenced by various factors such as changes in lifestyle or the course of disease treatment. Therefore, dynamic monitoring of semen quality is necessary. Repeated semen analyses over 3–6 months can provide a more accurate understanding of changes in sperm quality.
In daily life, maintaining good lifestyle habits and environmental factors can help improve sperm quality.
