Oligozoospermia

Oligozoospermia can be caused by various factors that either impair sperm production or hinder the transport of sperm. The most common causes include:

• Hormonal disorders: An underfunction of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus can affect the production of sex hormones necessary for sperm formation.
• Varicocele: A varicose vein formation in the scrotum that impairs blood flow and disrupts sperm production.
• Infections: Sexually transmitted infections or urinary tract infections can damage the testes or vas deferens and lead to reduced sperm production.
• Genetic causes: Chromosomal abnormalities such as Klinefelter syndrome or mutations affecting sperm formation can lead to oligozoospermia.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol abuse, obesity, and environmental factors such as toxins or radiation exposure can impair sperm production.
• Testicular injuries: Injuries to the testes or previous surgeries in the genital area can hinder sperm production or transport.

• In most cases, oligozoospermia does not cause obvious symptoms, except for difficulties in conceiving a child.
• However, in some cases, there may be signs such as swollen testicles, hormonal disorders, or a decreased libido, especially if the cause is hormonal or genetic.

The diagnosis begins with a sperm analysis to check the number and quality of the sperm. Further tests can be conducted to determine the cause:

• Hormone tests: Blood tests to measure hormones such as FSH, LH, and testosterone to identify hormonal causes.
• Ultrasound of the testes: To detect structural problems such as a varicocele or tumors.
• Genetic tests: If genetic causes are suspected, karyotype analyses or specific genetic examinations can be conducted.

The treatment depends on the underlying cause of oligozoospermia:

• Hormone therapy: In cases of hormonal disorders, hormone treatment can improve sperm production.
• Surgical procedures: A varicocele can be treated with surgery to improve blood flow and normalize sperm production.
• Medication treatment: Antibiotics can be prescribed for infections affecting the testes or sperm ducts.
• Assisted reproductive technologies (ART): If natural conception is difficult, procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can help increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

There is no specific way to completely prevent oligozoospermia. However, a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, alcohol abuse, and environmental toxins, as well as regular medical check-ups, can reduce the risk. Early detection and treatment of infections and hormonal disorders are also crucial.