overview

Teratozoospermia is a condition characterised by the presence of sperm with abnormal morphology in a semen sample, which can significantly impact male fertility.

This condition is identified when the percentage of normally shaped sperm falls below certain thresholds, making fertilisation more challenging.

It’s a common contributing factor to difficulties couples face when trying to conceive, underlining the importance of seeking professional medical advice and treatment.

Dr. Sawarkar stands at the forefront of addressing teratozoospermia, offering specialised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique condition. With an extensive background in male infertility treatments, Dr. Sawarkar employs cutting-edge techniques and personalised approaches to enhance sperm quality and improve fertility outcomes.

What is Teratozoospermia?

Teratozoospermia is a condition affecting the sperm, where a large number of them are not correctly formed. Normal sperm have an oval head and a long tail, which helps them swim and fertilize an egg.

However, in teratozoospermia, many sperm have unusual/abnormal sperm shapes that can make it harder for them to do this crucial job. This condition can be diagnosed through a test called a semen analysis, where the shapes of sperm are closely examined.

There are different types of morphological abnormalities seen in teratozoospermia, including:

• Head defects: These involve issues with the size or shape of the sperm’s head. It might be too large, too small, or oddly shaped.
• Midpiece defects:The midpiece connects the head to the tail. Problems here could include irregular thickness or incorrect positioning.
• Tail defects: This can include anything from a missing tail to multiple tails, or a tail that’s too short or too long, affecting the sperm’s mobility.

Causes of Teratozoospermia

The causes of teratozoospermia are varied and can include lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and exposure to certain environmental factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for developing targeted treatment strategies. Among the most common culprits are:

1. Varicocele: This condition involves the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, which can lead to increased temperature in the area. The excess heat may adversely affect sperm formation, contributing to abnormalities in sperm shape.


2. Infections: Certain infections, particularly those affecting the reproductive tract, can lead to inflammation and damage to the sperm or the organs responsible for sperm production. The result can be a higher percentage of abnormally shaped sperm.


3. Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption have all been linked to decreased sperm quality. These factors can directly or indirectly influence the health and morphology of sperm.


4. Environmental Exposures: Exposure to toxins such as heavy metals, pesticides, and radiation can also affect sperm morphology. Occupational hazards or living in areas with high levels of pollution can increase the risk of teratozoospermia.

How Can We Help?

Diagnosis Process at Dr.Sawarkar Clinic

At our clinic, the diagnostic process for oligospermia begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination to identify any potential causes of reduced sperm production.

Following this initial assessment, we conduct a comprehensive semen analysis, which involves evaluating the sperm count, motility, and morphology. This test is crucial for diagnosing oligospermia and requires abstaining from ejaculation for a period of 2-5 days before the sample is provided.

Further diagnostic tests may include hormone level assessments to identify any hormonal imbalances affecting sperm production. In cases where an underlying medical condition is suspected, additional tests such as genetic screenings, ultrasound imaging of the reproductive organs, and testicular biopsies might be recommended.

Treatment Options for Teratozoospermia

Dr. Sawarkar adopts a comprehensive approach in treating teratozoospermia, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment plans tailored to individual diagnoses. This multifaceted approach can significantly improve sperm morphology and enhance fertility outcomes for affected individuals.

Conclusion

Infertility can be a challenging issue for couples to deal with. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, an IVF specialist and azoospermia specialist like Dr. Sawarkar can help couples overcome emotional and medical barriers. With the latest treatment options available, there is hope for couples struggling to create their own families.