Can male infertility be cured?
Understanding Idiopathic Oligoasthenozoospermia: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia (IOA) is a common male infertility condition characterized by reduced sperm count (oligozoospermia) and poor sperm motility
(asthenozoospermia) without an identifiable cause. It affects a significant number of men seeking to conceive and can be a source of frustration and distress. In this article, we will delve into the details of idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia, exploring its causes, diagnosis methods and available treatment options.
Causes: Idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia refers to a condition where the exact cause of reduced sperm count and poor sperm motility cannot be determined, despite a thorough evaluation. Several factors have been proposed to contribute to IOA, including genetic abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, testicular dysfunction, varicocele, environmental factors, lifestyle choices and certain medical conditions. However, due to the lack of a specific identifiable cause, the term “idiopathic” is used.
Diagnosis: To diagnose idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia, a comprehensive fertility evaluation is required. The process involves a detailed medical history review, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Semen analysis is a crucial component in measuring sperm count, motility, and morphology. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, a sperm count of fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre of ejaculate is considered oligozoospermia and less than 32% of progressively motile sperm are classified as asthenozoospermia.
Source: WHO
Treatment Options: Treating idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia can be challenging due to the absence of a known cause. However, there are various strategies that can be employed to improve sperm quality and increase the chances of conception.
● When the cause of infertility is known- If the cause of male infertility is known (e.g, infections, erectile dysfunction etc.), then these patients are treated with targeted treatment options.
● When the cause of infertility is not identified-Idiopathic (cause is not identified) cases of infertility are usually treated with non-specific or empirical treatment.
Idiopathic causes of male infertility are difficult to treat because the definite cause is not identified and also many available treatments either have small or positive effects.
Different treatment options for male infertility are given below:
● Hormonal therapy e.g, testosterone
● Antioxidants
● Phosphodiesterase inhibitors
● Aromatase inhibitors
● Anti-estrogens
Treatment of Idiopathic male infertility:-
● Testosterone should not be used in patients with idiopathic male infertility.
● Anti-oxidant is commonly used in the treatment of idiopathic male infertility.
Anti-oxidant therapy for idiopathic male infertility
Anti-oxidant therapy is usually given as empirical treatment for male patients with idiopathic infertility for decreasing the concentration of free radicals which may beneficial effect on sperm function and fertility.
Advantages of antioxidants in male infertility:
Efficacy: Antioxidants in male infertility can improve sperm parameters and help to improve pregnancy rates.
Safety: Antioxidants in male infertility can be used without serious side effects.
Conclusion: While the exact etiology remains unknown, a thorough diagnostic evaluation is necessary to rule out any underlying conditions. Treatment options for IOA focus on lifestyle modifications, medication, assisted reproductive techniques, surgical interventions and psychological support. It is essential for couples experiencing IOA to consult with fertility specialists who can provide guidance and personalized treatment plans to increase the chances of successful conception.
How OATcare can improve Idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia problem.
OATcare is a novel sperm care therapy for infertile males prepared in technical collaboration with TRADAPHARMA, Switzerland which targets all the major factors in males which are Spermatogenesis, Maturation & Capacitation.
1) Maintains testosterone level to facilitate sperm production.
2) Protects sperm damage from ROS.
3) Facilitates sperm maturation & increases sperm energy.
4) Facilitates sperm &egg fertilization process.
5) Helps to maintain sperm integrity & motility.
The ingredients of OATcare are as follows:-
Myo-inositol 500 mg + Tribulus Terrestris Extract 150 mg + Alga Ecklonia Bicyclis (Brown Algae) Extract 100 mg + Chitosan Oligosaccharide 75 mg
