The causes of teratospermia are unknown in most cases. However, Hodgkin's disease, coeliac disease, and Crohn's disease may contribute in some instances.
In case of globozoospermia (sperm with round heads), the Golgi apparatus is not transformed into the acrosome that is needed for fertilization.
Poor Sperm Morphology Symptoms
The presence of abnormally-shaped sperm can negatively affect fertility by reducing sperm motility and/or preventing sperm from adhering to the ovum. Achieving a pregnancy may be difficult.
In testing for teratospermia, sperm are collected and analyzed under a microscope to detect abnormalities. These abnormalities may include heads that are large, small, tapered, or pyriform or tails that are abnormally shaped.
Antiestrogens have been shown to be effective in the treatment of teratospermia
Teratozoospermia (including the globozoospermia type), may be treated by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), injecting sperm directly into the egg.] Once the egg is fertilized, abnormal sperm morphology does not appear to influence blastocyst development or blastocyst morphology. Even with severe teratozoospermia, microscopy can still detect the few sperm cells that have a "normal" morphology, allowing for optimal success rate.
Natural Treatments for Sperm Morphology
TCM & Acupuncture
Holistic treatments such as Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine have been used for over 2000 years in the enhancement of male fertility and treatment of male infertility. Any experienced acupuncturists will first make an initial TCM diagnosis bases on Chinese medical theory which involves taking a detailed case history and includes Tongue and Pulse diagnosis.
In the treatment of sperm morphology issues with acupuncture - focus is usually given to the Liver and Kidney acupoints as they reside on acupuncture meridians which govern the reproductive energies in men. Acupuncture treatment for male infertility can be effective but consistent, long term care is sometimes required for chronic or inherited conditions.
- Vitamin Supplements
- Vitamin E - Antioxidant
Major chain-breaking antioxidant in membranes. Supports sperm motility, increases sperm count, and reduces lipid peroxidation while increasing viability.
- Vitamin C - Antioxidant
Chain-breaking antioxidant: Protects sperm from free radicals and oxidative stress. Helps recycle vitamin E. Supports male fertility by preventing reductions in sperm motility.
- L-Carnitine - Ammino Acid
Amino-acid supports sperm metabolism and provides antioxidative activity. Has been shown to improve several sperm parameters, including sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. Click here to read more about L-Carnitine and Sperm Health.
- Vitamin A - Antioxidant
Vitamins A (beta carotene) is a fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that plays a key role in repairing damage caused by the environment and aging - and in preventing cellular damage due to oxidizing free radicals. Studies indicate vitamin A supports sperm motility.
- Selenium - Antioxidant
Key antioxidant that may improve sperm motility in concert with other FertilAid for Men ingredients/antioxidants. Reduces oxidative damage from free radicals and may improve sperm motility and concentration.
- Grapeseed Extract
Grapeseed extract is a plant substance that provides a concentrated source of oligomeric proanthocyanidins. These vital antioxidants protect cells from free radical/oxidative damage. Grapeseed extract is high in polyphenols, a compound rich in antioxidants that studies show to be more potent antioxidants than vitamin C and E and beta-carotene.
- Zinc - Antioxidant
Zinc is a mineral that provides a antioxidative function. Zinc has been shown to to have a positive effect on sperm morphology, sperm motility and testosterone metabolism.
Fertility Diets
Avoiding fertility negative foods while maintaining a nutrient dense diet may help with producing healthy sperm and improving sperm morphology. Men should avoid foods high in artificial sugars, chemicals and additives while including an abundance of green wholefoods, fruits and quality protein to increase male health and fertility.
Fertility foods to include in your meals would be oysters, mussels and oily fish as they are high in Zinc, protein and fatty acids - all of which are highly beneficial to sperm health.
Greens such as spinach, broccoli, asparagus and avocado should also take up significant space on your shopping list and selecting organic where possible should reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and hormones.
