If you’re considering starting a family, understanding the signs of healthy sperm is crucial as sperm health impacts male fertility. Conception is only possible with the presence of healthy sperm and being able to recognise the indicators will aid you in making the right decisions to improve your fertility. In this article, we will discuss five vital signs of healthy sperm and their implications on your fertility.

Sign 1: Normal Sperm Count  

When it comes to the first signs of sperm health, a normal sperm count is one of the most important features. The term sperm count refers to the number of sperm cells in a given volume of semen. According to medical guidelines, a healthy sperm count is regarded to be between 15 million and 200 million sperm per millilitre of semen. If a healthy count is not achieved, achieving conception may become a challenge.

What is a Healthy Sperm Count?

A healthy sperm count is sited clinically at 15 million or higher sperm per milliliter which correlates with 39 million total sperm per ejaculate, while a sperm count lower than that is designed as insufficient. In terms of infertility, under 15 million is usually determined as low and suggestive of infertility. In any case, while low sperm count may imply high difficulty in conceiving naturally, it does not deem attempting conception impossible. With lower counts, time and conditions to conceive may have to be optimal as well as require the possibility of medical enhancement.

The sperm count may differ because of a person’s daily activities, including what they eat, how often they exercise, and their stress levels. Also, some non-physical factors like exposure to certain medicines and environmental toxins may have profound effects on the sperm count. Attempting to lead a balanced lifestyle tends to improve the sperm count.

Sign 2: Healthy Sperm Motility 

Motility of sperm denotes the ability of the sperm to swim towards the egg for fertilization in an efficient manner. Healthy sperm must have good motility since a high sperm count does not guarantee that the sperm will effectively move to fertilise the egg.

Subtypes of Motility

• Progressive motility: Sperm that moves towards the egg in a straight line. This is the most ideal form of motility.
• Non-progressive motility: Sperm that moves in circles but does not travel towards the egg. This is a more purposeless form of motility.
• Immotile sperm: Unable to move at all. This form can be extremely detrimental to fertility.

Sign 3: Accurate Sperm Morphology 

Morphology refers to how the sperm looks; its size and shape. The sperm to fertilise an egg must fit in the correct shape, especially the head, which should be streamlined and able to bust through the egg’s outer layers.

Classification of Sperm Shape

Having normal sperm morphology means that the sperm has a well-formed head, mid-piece, and tail. Abnormally shaped sperm can have a misshapen head or double tail, which can make fertilizing an egg more cumbersome. A high proportion of abnormally shaped sperm may lower the chances of conception.

Sign 4: Optimal Sperm Volume

Sperm volume is defined as the quantity of semen that is expelled during ejaculation. For healthy male fertility, sperm volume should not be lower than 1.5 ml and should not exceed five ml per ejaculation. Lower semen volume may result in a reduced number of sperm cells available to reach the egg, leading to lower chances of conception.

What is a Normal Sperm Volume?

Normal sperm volume refers to the amount of sperm with every ejaculation, thus, maintaining its cap number aids in boosting successful fertilization attempts. It is important to maintain normal sperm volume as it is one of the indicators of dehydration, hormonal imbalance, or blockage in the reproductive system.

Sign 5: Healthy Sperm DNA Integrity

Sperm DNA integrity is recognized as one of the most vital markers of sperm health. The DNA of healthy sperm is ascertained to be intact and able to fertilize an ovum as well as sustain subsequent embryo development,if needs be. Poor quality sperm DNA may result in fertilization arrest or aggravate problems during embryo development.

Factors Affecting DNA Integrity

Sperm DNA integrity may be impacted by certain lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake, unhealthy eating habits, and exposure to environmental pollutants. Following a healthy diet in combination with an active lifestyle may enhance DNA as well as overall sperm quality.

Lifestyle Changes to Improve Sperm Health

Making healthier dietary and activity choices has been shown to positively impact sperm health. Some of the best recommendations include:

• Healthy Diet: A diet containing a variety of foods, including those with high levels of antioxidants, vitamins such as Vitamin C, E and minerals like zinc and folate, can boost sperm quality.
• Exercise: Sperm count is significantly enhanced by regular physical exercise, especially aerobic activities.
• Avoid Harmful Substances: Quitting or reducing the intake of smoking, alcohol and even recreational drugs greatly enhances sperm quality.

When Should You Seek Fertility Specialist Help?

If you find yourself worrying over your sperm health, it would be best to seek a fertility specilaist’s care. Some fertility specialists can evaluate your sperm‘s health, to check for count, motility, morphology, and even DNA fragmentation. They say the earlier one takes action, the better the results will be, so contact an expert if you are encountering difficulties in attaining a baby.

Conclusion

Good quality sperm is equally important for male fertility, and by paying attention to the signs of sperm health, men can actively take necessary measures leading to enhanced chances of conception. Regular check ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking professional advice significantly improve one’s sperm health. If you are considering starting a family, knowing these signs and being ready to make shifts will greatly help along the journey towards achieving parenthood.