Problems with sperm motility can be very frustrating. The fact of the matter is that, in many cases, a man may never know exactly why he has low sperm motility. In addition, the solution to low sperm motility is often a complex fertilization procedure, such as ICSI. The good news for the man with low sperm motility is that, in many cases, a man may be able to improve sperm motility through other means.

One way to improve sperm motility is to make sure that the sperm have the energy that they need for their journey. Prior to ejaculation, sperm build up this energy by burning off fat. After ejaculation occurs, the sperm use fructose, the natural sugar that is also found in the seminal fluid. The middle of the sperm, just below the head, has mitochondria, which are like tiny furnaces that are used to burn the sugar to turn it into energy for the long journey. Two specific proteins, L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine are needed to stoke those furnaces. Using a supplement containing these two proteins may indeed be able to help the sperm to be able to move more effectively.

Having said that, the fact of the matter is that some sperm motility problems cannot be improved. When, for example, sperm motility is low due to a genetic abnormality, there is nothing that can help with motility. In these cases, treatments like IUI or IVF may be necessary. In other cases, where the low sperm motility is caused by a varicocele, surgical treatment may be able to correct the problem. However, research has not yet effectively determined whether or not treating a varicocele surgically will result in low sperm motility after the procedure. Still other men have a hormonal deficiency that causes low sperm motility. In these cases, studies have shown some degree of limited success using medications to address the hormone deficiency, which then helps improve sperm motility.

There are a variety of supplements available over-the-counter that may also be able to improve sperm motility. Many of them contain those important carnitine proteins, as well as other vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients that may help with conception.

Posted in Trying to Get Pregnant

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