Daniel Thomas, PhD

Author

About the author

Dr. Thomas, PhD, is one of Mojo's co-founders and has a background in nanotechnology. He focuses on applying AI-driven solutions to biomedical research and played a key role in developing Mojo AISA, our AI-powered microscope designed for automated sperm analysis. His work spans AI-integrated imaging and robotics, contributing to research in the field, including co-authoring "Clinical Validation of Mojo AISA, an Artificial Intelligence Robotic CASA System." Dr. Thomas continues to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and medical diagnostics.
Lifestyle & Environmental
Men’s Fertility
Sperm Testing & Treatment

What are Sperm and is That What Male Fertility is All About?

Male fertility is primarily determined by the health and function of sperm. Sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape) play a significant role in a man’s ability to conceive. These microscopic cells must navigate a complex reproductive environment to fertilize an egg successfully.

 

However, sperm health can be influenced by various factors, including lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and underlying medical conditions. Understanding the fundamentals of sperm production and function is essential for individuals and couples looking to optimize their reproductive health (Agarwal et al., 2020).

The Role of Sperm in Conception

The start of a baby-making journey may seem simple: all we need is an egg cell and a sperm cell. When they join, fertilisation occurs, creating an embryo—the starting point of human life.

 

While fertilising an egg is not the goal of every ejaculation, biologically, this is sperm’s sole purpose. To increase the chances of fertilisation, a single ejaculation contains millions of sperm. Despite this high count, the journey to the fallopian tubes is challenging. The sperm must navigate a distance of 5-7 cm, which is immense when compared to their microscopic size. Millions of sperm will not make it; many die or take a wrong turn. Only a few thousand reach the fallopian tubes (Gharagozloo & Aitken, 2016).

 

In the end, only ONE sperm will penetrate the outer shell of the egg, triggering a reaction that prevents any other sperm from entering. Given the challenges sperm face, both sperm count and sperm quality play critical roles in successful conception (World Health Organization, 2021).

How Are Sperm Produced?

Unlike egg cells, which are present at birth and do not regenerate, sperm are produced continuously throughout a male’s life. Approximately 100 million sperm are produced daily.

 

Sperm production is a complex and delicate process, requiring many elements to function correctly. This process, known as spermatogenesis, occurs in the testicles and relies on three essential hormones:

 

  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Stimulates sperm production

  • Luteinizing hormone (LH): Triggers testosterone production

  • Testosterone: Regulates sperm development and male reproductive health.

The process begins in the seminiferous tubules, where specialized Sertoli cells support sperm development. Each division produces one sperm cell while retaining another for future production. This cycle ensures continuous sperm production as long as hormones remain balanced.


How to Ensure the Best Possible Sperm Health

Optimising sperm health is crucial for improving male fertility. Several factors influence sperm quality, including sperm motility, count, and morphology. To support sperm production and overall reproductive health, consider the following:

Key Lifestyle and Dietary Factors:

  • Nutrition: A diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, selenium, and vitamin C supports sperm quality and protects against oxidative stress.

  • Exercise: Regular physical activity maintains hormonal balance, essential for sperm production.

  • Avoid Toxins: Smoking, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs significantly impair sperm count and motility.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Heat Exposure: Frequent hot baths, saunas, or tight clothing may reduce sperm production by increasing testicular temperature.

  • Chemical Exposure: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics, pesticides, and personal care products may harm sperm health.

  • Stress Management: High cortisol levels interfere with testosterone production, affecting fertility.

By making these small lifestyle adjustments, men can enhance their sperm quality and improve their fertility potential.

How to Test Male Fertility

Semen Analysis: The First Step

Male fertility testing typically begins with a semen analysis, a simple, non-invasive test evaluating:

 

  • Sperm count: The number of sperm per millilitre of semen

  • Sperm motility: The ability of sperm to move efficiently

  • Sperm morphology: The shape and structure of sperm.

A sample is collected through ejaculation and analyzed under a microscope in a laboratory. The results are compared to WHO reference values to assess reproductive health.

Additional Male Fertility Tests

If abnormalities are detected in semen analysis, further tests may be recommended:

  • Hormonal Testing: Blood tests measuring testosterone, FSH, and LH levels to assess hormonal balance.

  • Genetic Testing: Karyotype testing identifies chromosomal abnormalities affecting sperm production.

  • Ultrasound: A scrotal ultrasound detects structural issues like varicoceles or blockages in sperm transport.

Consulting a fertility specialist can provide tailored treatment strategies based on individual test results.

 

 

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns. We do not accept liability for any reliance on this information.

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