Infertility affects an estimated 48.5 million couples globally, with conception sometimes taking up to five years or more. A concerning factor contributing to this is the declining quality of sperm, which has significantly worsened over the last few decades. Research indicates that sperm counts have decreased by more than 50 percent over the past 46 years, with the decline accelerating in recent years.
This trend is evident worldwide, including in India, where male reproductive health is severely impacted. Given that male reproductive issues account for 30–50 percent of infertility cases, improving sperm quality is critical for enhancing fertility outcomes and addressing the global infertility crisis.
Impact of sperm quality on IVF success
Sperm quality plays a crucial role in the success of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Abnormal sperm parameters—such as low sperm concentration, decreased motility, and abnormal morphology—are key contributors to lower IVF success rates, says Dr Sheetal Jindal (MBBS, MD OBG, EPHM, IIM Kolkata), Senior Consultant and Medical Director, Director of Medical Genetics Program, Jindal IVF, Chandigarh.
Also read | In vitro fertilisation: 5 key points to keep in mind before beginning IVF treatment
Studies indicate that 40–88 percent of sperm from infertile men contain high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Elevated ROS levels cause oxidative stress, which negatively impacts sperm maturation, hyperactivation, and the acrosome reaction, all of which are vital for fertilization, says Jindal. As a result, oxidative stress significantly reduces the chances of successful IVF by impairing the sperm’s ability to fertilise the egg.
Importance of sperm DNA integrity
The integrity of sperm DNA is vital not only for IVF success but also for the overall health of the offspring. High levels of ROS can damage sperm DNA, leading to lower pregnancy rates and a higher risk of genetic abnormalities in children conceived through assisted reproductive technologies (ART), says Jindal.
DNA fragmentation in sperm not only diminishes fertilisation potential but also increases the likelihood of miscarriage and developmental problems in the embryo. Maintaining sperm DNA integrity is essential for improving IVF success rates and ensuring the health of both the embryo and the child.
Also read | 9 lifestyle changes to improve IVF success
How to improve sperm quality
Addressing declining sperm quality requires a holistic approach that combines lifestyle modifications with medical treatments. Key lifestyle changes include reducing exposure to harmful environmental toxins such as pollutants and chemicals, as well as incorporating a diet rich in antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to mitigate oxidative stress.
Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress through mindfulness practices or therapy also contribute to better sperm health.
In addition to lifestyle adjustments, emerging medical treatments offer promising solutions. Advances in antioxidant therapies have shown potential to protect sperm cells from oxidative damage, says Dr Jindal.
Supplements such as Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E have been studied for their potential to improve sperm parameters and overall reproductive health. Furthermore, ongoing clinical research into hormonal treatments and targeted therapies continues to explore effective methods for addressing underlying conditions that impair sperm quality. For men with severe infertility, surgical sperm retrieval provides an alternative, allowing sperm to be collected directly from the testes or epididymis for use in IVF.
Addressing lifestyle factors
Lifestyle habits such as smoking, binge drinking, and drug use can severely affect sperm quality. Addressing these factors is essential for improving fertility. Regular medical check-ups can help men manage conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which also impact fertility.
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