Teratozoospermia is a condition where there is an increase in abnormal sperms in a man’s semen. When the concentration of sperm with abnormal morphology exceeds 96% of the semen sample, Teratozoospermia is diagnosed. As the abnormal sperms become unable to fertilize the egg, the condition directly affects fertility.

Causes

The sperm quality of a man can be affected by the following

• Diabetes
• Vasectomy
• Varicocele
• Testicular issues
• Seminal infections
• Malnutrition
• Injuries
• Smoking
• Exposure to toxins
• Abuse of alcohol or drugs
• Cancer and cancer treatment
• Age
• Exposure to heat
• Febrile episodes

Diagnosis

Teratozoospermia is diagnosed through a semen analysis test. According to the WHO, there must be at least 4% sperms with a normal morphology for the sample to be considered normal. Kruger parameters dictate that is 4 to 15 % of the sperms are normal, the sample has moderate Teratozoospermia. If the sample has less than 4% normal sperms, it indicates severe Teratozoospermia.

Treatment

• Lifestyle changes
  Some lifestyle changes can reverse Teratozoospermia.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Limiting the use of alcohol
  • Reducing the use of cell phones
  • Regular exercise
  • Avoiding the use of tobacco
• Supplements
  The fertility expert may prescribe supplements like selenium and vitamin E to improve sperm morphology.
• Artificial insemination, IVF and ICSI
  Sperm sample may be used to create a pregnancy using ART methods like artificial insemination, IVF or ICSI.