Male Fertility: Low Sperm Count & Sperm Motility

1. Age - As men get older, their sperm quality and quantity tend to decline. (Selvam et al., 2019). Many studies have linked advanced paternal age to lower sperm counts and poorer sperm motility (Selvam et al., 2019) (Gabriel & Vawda, 1993). 2. Lifestyle - Factors such as chronic stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and exposure to environmental toxins like pesticides, heavy metals, and chronic heat exposure have been shown to negatively impact sperm parameters. Additionally, metabolic issues such as insulin resistance and obesity, chronic inflammation, and the presence of infections can further compromise sperm quality. Electromagnetic frequency (EMF) exposure, especially from mobile phones kept in trouser pockets, and radiation from certain devices are also linked to impaired sperm function. Nutritional deficiencies and insufficiencies, particularly in key vitamins and minerals like zinc and antioxidants, play a critical role in reducing sperm count, motility, and overall reproductive health. (Aitken & Baker, 2006) (Gabriel & Vawda, 1993). 3. Medical conditions - • Genital tract infections - infections of the male reproductive organs like prostatitis, epididymitis, and orchitis may impair sperm quality and production (Aitken & Baker, 2006). • Varicocele - an enlargement of the veins in the scrotum, which can trap heat and damage sperm. • Retrograde ejaculation - when semen goes backward into the bladder instead of out through the penis. • Tubular defects - Problems in the tubules involved in sperm production, transport and maturation. • Testicular injury or trauma - which can reduce sperm production. • Hormonal imbalances - reduced testosterone, increased oestrogen, increased prolactin levels, increased amount of stress hormones like cortisol and DHEA, hypothyroidism etc. can affect sperm production. • Genetic disorders - such as Klinefelter's syndrome and cystic fibrosis (Selvam et al., 2019). • Autoimmune diseases and comorbidities like diabetes can all lead to male infertility. Gut microbiome dysbiosis has also been linked to impaired spermatogenesis and sperm motility. All these factors may lead to imbalances in hormone levels, inflammation or oxidative stress, which can ultimately reduce sperm count and motility.

A comprehensive male fertility evaluation often involves semen analysis, which examines sperm count, motility, morphology, and other parameters. Hormonal tests, genetic tests, and imaging studies may also be ordered to identify underlying causes.

The treatment approach depends on the underlying cause(s). Lifestyle modifications - Weight loss, reducing stress through mindfulness practices, quitting smoking and alcohol, avoiding exposure to toxins, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often improve sperm parameters. Ensuring quality sleep and exposure to daily sunlight further supports hormonal regulation and overall reproductive health. Additionally, avoiding tight-fitting clothing, especially underwear, and minimizing prolonged sitting helps maintain optimal scrotal temperature, which is crucial for healthy sperm production. It is also recommended to avoid keeping mobile phones in pockets, particularly near the groin area, to reduce exposure to heat and electromagnetic radiation. Diet - A balanced diet with plants, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats has been shown to enhance sperm quality. Incorporating an anti-inflammatory diet helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are common contributors to male infertility. Foods rich in antioxidants such as citrus fruits, berries, walnuts etc. may also help (Wogatzky et al., 2012) (Babakhanzadeh et al., 2020). Medical treatment - Depending on the cause, medications, hormonal therapy, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF may be recommended.

• Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, lycopene, N acetyl cysteine and coenzyme Q10 have been studied and found to improve sperm count and motility. (Durairajanayagam, 2018) (Babakhanzadeh et al., 2020) (Ding et al., 2020). • Herbs with antioxidant properties like turmeric, ginger, green tea etc. may also be beneficial. • Omega 3 fatty acids - Studies indicate that omega-3s may help improve sperm quality, motility and DNA integrity. • Zinc - Zinc is essential for normal sperm development and function. • Vitamins like folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin D play crucial roles in spermatogenesis and sperm health. • Carnitine - important for mitochondrial function and sperm energy production. • Adaptogens like ashwagandha and maca root helps to reduce stress and improve sperm parameters. Tranquilax supplements with adaptogenic herbs appear promising for management of male infertility. • Folic acid - Important for sperm DNA synthesis and maturation. • Probiotics - Help by restoring gut microbiome health and reducing inflammation. • The role of Cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical found in Cannabis sativa plan, in treating male fertility has been studied, and while it may offer a natural approach to improving fertility, further research is needed to fully understand its effects. (Southern California Reproductive Center, n.d.)