Bades to improve spermogram: myth or reality?
I. Introduction: The problem of male infertility and the role of a spermogram
Male infertility is a serious problem affecting millions of couples around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the male factor in infertility is about 50% of cases. This means that problems with the male reproductive function are the same common cause of infertility as female problems. In recent decades, there has been a tendency to reduce male fertility indicators, which is associated with various factors, including lifestyle, environmental and disease.
The main method of assessing male fertility is the analysis of sperm, known as a spermogram. The spermogram allows you to evaluate the key sperm indicators, such as:
- The volume of ejaculates: The total amount of sperm is released during ejaculation. Normal values vary from 1.5 ml to 6 ml. Too small volume can indicate problems with the prostate gland or seed bubbles, and too large – on inflammatory processes.
- Sperm concentration: The number of sperm in one milliliter of ejaculate. WHO determines the norm of at least 15 million spermatozoa per milliliter. The low concentration of sperm (oligozoospermia) significantly reduces the likelihood of conception.
- The total number of sperm: The total number of sperm in the whole ejaculation. The value of at least 39 million spermatozoa is considered normal.
- Sperm mobility: The ability of sperm move forward. The percentage of spermatozoa with progressive mobility (capable of moving in a straight or large circle) and the percentage of sperm with non -aggressive mobility are estimated (move in place or along a small circle). At least 32% of sperm with progressive mobility is considered normal. The low mobility of sperm (asthenozoospermia) makes it difficult to achieve the egg and fertilization.
- Sperm morphology: The form of sperm. The percentage of sperm with normal morphology is estimated. According to the strict Cruger’s criteria, at least 4% of sperm with the right form is considered normal. A high percentage of sperm with abnormal morphology (teratozoospermia) can affect the ability of spermatozoa to penetrate the egg.
- Sperm viability: The percentage of living sperm in the ejaculate. At least 58% of living sperm are considered normal.
- pH sperm: Acid-base balance of sperm. Normal values vary from 7.2 to 8.0. Deviations from the norm may indicate inflammatory processes or problems with seed bubbles.
- The presence of leukocytes: White blood cells in sperm. An increased amount of leukocytes (leakpermia) may indicate an infection or inflammation in the reproductive organs.
- The presence of anti -permal antibodies (asat): Antibodies that attack sperm. Asat can impede sperm mobility and fertilization.
Based on the results of the spermogram, the doctor can diagnose and propose treatment that may include a change in lifestyle, drug therapy, surgical intervention or auxiliary reproductive technologies (ABTR), such as extraperational fertilization (ECO).
In recent years, biologically active additives (dietary supplements) have been gaining more and more popularity to improve spermogram indicators. Many men who are faced with the problems of fertility consider dietary supplements as an alternative or an addition to traditional methods of treatment. However, the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplement to improve spermogram is the subject of discussions and research. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not medicines, and their effectiveness is not always confirmed by clinical trials.
II. The main components of the dietary supplement used to improve the spermogram and the mechanisms of their action
The market of dietary supplements intended to improve male fertility is huge and diverse. Many of these additives contain a combination of various vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and plant extracts. Below are the most common components of dietary supplements and the alleged mechanisms of their actions:
- L-Carnitin: Amino acid, which plays an important role in energy metabolism. L-carnitine helps to transfer fatty acids to mitochondria, where they are used to produce energy. It is assumed that L-carnitine improves sperm mobility and protects them from damage caused by oxidative stress. Some studies have shown the positive effect of L-carnitine on the concentration of sperm and their morphology.
- Coenzim Q10 (COQ10): A vitamin -like substance that is involved in the production of energy in cells and is a powerful antioxidant. COQ10 protects sperm from damage caused by free radicals, and improves their mobility. A low COQ10 in sperm is often observed in men with infertility.
- Selenium: A microelement necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland and the immune system. Selenium is also an important antioxidant that protects sperm from oxidative stress. Selenium deficiency can lead to a decrease in sperm mobility and a deterioration in their morphology.
- Zinc: A trace element that plays an important role in reproductive function. Zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone, sperm maturation and their protection against damage. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in sperm concentration and a deterioration in their mobility.
- Folic acid: B vitamin, necessary for the normal division of cells and DNA synthesis. Folic acid is important for the maturation of sperm and reducing the risk of genetic defects. Folic acid deficiency can lead to a decrease in sperm concentration and a deterioration in their morphology.
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that protects sperm from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C also improves sperm mobility and protects their DNA from damage.
- Vitamin E: Another powerful antioxidant that protects sperm from oxidative stress and improves their mobility. Vitamin E is also important for the normal functioning of the immune system.
- L-arginine: Amino acid, which is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No). No plays an important role in expanding blood vessels and improving the blood supply to reproductive organs. L-arginine can improve erectile function and increase the volume of ejaculate.
- Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus Extract): Plant extract, which is traditionally used to increase libido and improve erectile function. It is believed that the tribulus terrestrix stimulates the production of testosterone, although scientific data on this are contradictory.
- Peruvian poppy extract (Lepidium Meyenii): Plant extract, which is traditionally used to increase fertility and libido. It is believed that Peruvian poppy improves sperm mobility and increases their concentration. Some studies have shown the positive influence of Peruvian poppies on male fertility.
- Astaxanthin: A powerful antioxidant belonging to the class of carotenoids. Astaxantin protects sperm from damage caused by free radicals, and improves their mobility. It also has anti -inflammatory properties.
- N-Acetylcistein (NAC): The predecessor of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects sperm from oxidative stress. NAC also has mucolytic properties and can improve sperm quality in men with inflammatory diseases of reproductive organs.
It is important to note that the mechanisms of action of these components of dietary supplements on spermatogenesis and fertility have not been fully studied. Many studies were conducted in small groups of patients, and the results are often contradictory. Therefore, it is necessary to be careful about the statements of dietary supplements about their miraculous properties.
III. Scientific evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplement to improve spermogram: analysis of clinical research
The effectiveness of dietary supplements to improve spermogram is the subject of scientific research. Many clinical trials were carried out to assess the influence of various dietary supplements on sperm indicators. However, the results of these studies are often contradictory, and the quality of evidence varies.
A. L-carnitin:
Numerous studies studied the influence of L-carnitine on male fertility. Some meta-analyzes have shown that L-carnitine can improve sperm mobility and increase their concentration. For example, meta-analysis, published in the magazine “Fertility and Sterolyity” in 2017, showed that L-carnitine significantly improves sperm mobility compared to placebo. Another meta-analysis published in the magazine “Asian Journal of Andrology” in 2016 showed that L-carnitine can improve the concentration of sperm, their mobility and morphology.
However, not all studies confirm the positive effect of L-carnitine. Some studies have not revealed significant differences in sperm indicators between groups taking L-carnitine and placebo. Possible causes of conflicting results include differences in the dosage of L-carnitine, duration of treatment, patient characteristics and research methodology.
B. Coenzim Q10 (COQ10):
Studies have shown that COQ10 can improve sperm mobility and their concentration. The meta-analysis, published in the journal “World Journal of Men’s Health” in 2018, showed that CoQ10 significantly improves sperm mobility compared to placebo. Another study published in the journal Andrology in 2013 showed that COQ10 improves sperm concentration and their mobility in men with idiopathic infertility (infertility of an unclear cause).
Despite the positive results, it should be noted that most COQ10 studies were small and had a limited methodology. Larger and well -planned clinical trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of COQ10 to improve the spermogram.
C. Selenium:
Selenium is an important trace element for male fertility. Studies have shown that selenium additives can improve sperm mobility and their morphology. The study published in the journal Biological Trace Element Research in 2000 showed that selenium additives improve sperm mobility in men with low selenium in cum. Another study published in the journal Journal of Urology in 1998 showed that the additives of selenium and vitamin E improve sperm mobility in men with idiopathic infertility.
It is important to note that the excess selenium can be toxic. Therefore, caution must be observed when taking selenium additives and not exceed the recommended dosage.
D. Zinc:
Zinc is an important trace element for reproductive function. Studies have shown that zinc supplements can improve sperm concentration and their mobility. The meta-analysis published in the journal “Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology” in 2016 showed that zinc additives can improve the concentration of spermatozoa in men with low zinc in sperm. Another study published in the journal Fertility and Sterolyity in 2002 showed that zinc and folic acid additives improve the concentration of spermatozoa in men with subwarb (reduced fertility).
As in the case of selenium, an excess of zinc can be toxic. Therefore, caution must be observed when taking zinc additives and not exceed the recommended dosage.
E. Folic acid:
Folic acid is necessary for normal cell division and DNA synthesis. Studies have shown that folic acid supplements can improve sperm concentration and reduce the risk of genetic defects. The study published in the journal Fertility and Sterolyy in 2002 showed that zinc and folic acid additives improve the concentration of spermatozoa in men with subwarb. Another study published in the journal Human Reproduction in 2001 showed that folic acid supplements reduce the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in sperm.
F. Vitamin C and vitamin E:
Vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants that protect sperm from damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that the additives of vitamins C and E can improve sperm mobility and their morphology. The study published in the magazine “Fertility and Sterolyity” in 1998 showed that the additives of vitamins C and E improve sperm mobility in men with idiopathic infertility. Another study published in the journal Andrologia in 2003 showed that vitamin C additives reduce damage to sperm DNA caused by oxidative stress.
G. Plant extracts (Tribulus Terrytris, Maka Peruvian):
Scientific data on the efficiency of plant extracts, such as Tertris and Maca Puruanskaya Tribulus, are contradictory to improve the spermogram. Some studies have shown that these extracts can improve libido and erectile function, but their effect on sperm indicators remains unclear. Better -quality clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficiency and safety of these plant extracts.
Conclusion:
Despite the fact that some studies show the positive impact of individual dietary supplements on sperm indicators, it is necessary to be careful about the statements of dietary supplements about their miraculous properties. Many studies were small and had a limited methodology. Research results are often contradictory. Larger and well -planned clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficiency and safety of dietary supplements to improve the spermogram.
IV. Risks and side effects of dietary supplement to improve spermogram
Reception of dietary supplements, as well as taking any other substances, can be associated with certain risks and side effects. It is important to consider these risks before starting dietary supplements to improve the spermogram.
- Uncontrolled composition and quality: Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality and safety control. The composition of dietary supplements can vary from party to party, and they may contain impurities or ingredients that are not indicated on the label. This may pose a serious threat to health, especially for people with allergies or other diseases.
- Interaction with drugs: Some components of dietary supplements can interact with the medicines that a person takes. This can enhance or weaken the effect of drugs, as well as cause undesirable side effects. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements that you take, especially if you take any medicine.
- Side effects: Some components of dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation), headache, dizziness, allergic reactions and others. In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as damage to the liver or kidneys.
- Toxicity with an overdose: Some components of dietary supplements, such as selenium and zinc, can be toxic with an overdose. It is important to observe the recommended dosage indicated on the Bad label, and not exceed it.
- Lack of proven effectiveness: As already mentioned, the effectiveness of many dietary supplements to improve the spermogram is not proven by scientific research. Therefore, the reception of dietary supplements may not bring the desired result and can be an empty waste of money.
- Self -medication: Reception of dietary supplements without consulting a doctor can lead to self -medication and delay in making the correct diagnosis and prescribing effective treatment. It is important to consult a doctor to examine and determine the cause of problems with fertility.
V. Alternatives Badam to improve the spermogram: change in lifestyle, medication therapy, AS
Before you start taking dietary supplements to improve a spermogram, it is important to consider alternative treatment methods that have a stronger scientific base and proven effectiveness.
A. Change in lifestyle:
A change in lifestyle can have a significant impact on male fertility. Recommended:
- Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low -fat protein is necessary for normal spermatogenesis. It is recommended to avoid processed foods, fast food, sweet drinks and excess caffeine.
- Regular physical exercises: Moderate physical activity (for example, walking, running, swimming) can improve the general state of health and increase testosterone levels. Excessive physical exertion should be avoided, which can negatively affect fertility.
- Reducing stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect hormonal balance and spermatogenesis. It is recommended to use stress management methods such as yoga, meditation, breathing exercises or hobbies.
- Refusal of smoking: Cigarette smoking has a negative impact on all sperm indicators, including concentration, mobility and morphology of sperm. Refusal of smoking can significantly improve fertility.
- Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect the level of testosterone and spermatogenesis. It is recommended to limit the use of alcohol to moderate levels (not more than 1-2 servings per day).
- Avoiding the effects of toxic substances: The effect of pesticides, heavy metals, radiation and other toxic substances can negatively affect spermatogenesis. It is recommended to avoid exposure to these substances, if possible.
- Maintaining normal weight: Obesity and overweight can negatively affect hormonal balance and spermatogenesis. It is recommended to maintain normal weight with a healthy diet and regular physical exercises.
- Avoiding overheating of the testicles: The high temperature of the testicles can negatively affect spermatogenesis. It is recommended to avoid wearing close underwear, frequent visiting saunas and long -term seats.
B. Drug therapy:
In some cases, drug therapy may be required to improve the spermogram. The doctor may prescribe:
- Hormonal therapy: If the cause of infertility is hormonal imbalance, the doctor can prescribe hormonal therapy to normalize the level of testosterone, follicle -stimulating hormone (FSH) or luteinizing hormone (LH).
- Antibiotics: If the cause of infertility is an infection of reproductive organs, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat infection.
- Antioxidants: In some cases, the doctor may prescribe antioxidants (for example, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium) in higher doses than are contained in dietary supplements.
- Drugs to improve blood circulation: In some cases, the doctor may prescribe drugs to improve blood circulation in the reproductive organs.
C. Auxiliary reproductive technologies (ART):
If a change in lifestyle and drug therapy do not bring the desired result, auxiliary reproductive technologies (VTRs) can be considered, such as:
- Intrauterine insemination (VMI): It consists in the introduction of processed sperm directly into the woman’s uterus. VMI can be effective in cases of mild and moderate degree of male infertility.
- Extracorporeal fertilization (IVF): IVF consists in fertilizing the egg with a sperm in the laboratory and subsequent transfer of the embryo to the woman’s uterus. IVF can be effective in cases of severe male infertility.
- Intracitoplasmic injection of a sperm (ICSI): ICSI is a variety of eco, in which one sperm is introduced directly into the egg. ICSI is used in cases of severe male infertility, when spermatozoa has low mobility or abnormal morphology.
- Removing sperm from the testis (Tese/Pesa): In cases where spermatozoa is absent in the ejaculate, they can be removed directly from the testicle using the surgical procedure (TSE) or puncture (PESA).
VI. The role of a doctor in choosing a strategy for the treatment of male infertility
It is important to emphasize that the choice of strategy for the treatment of male infertility should be carried out in conjunction with a doctor. The doctor will conduct a thorough examination, including the history of the anamnesis, a physical examination and analysis of the spermogram to determine the cause of infertility. Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will offer the most suitable treatment plan, which may include a change in lifestyle, drug therapy, surgical intervention, or CRT.
You should not self -medicate and independently assign yourself dietary supplements. Firstly, the effectiveness of many dietary supplements has not been proven by scientific research. Secondly, the intake of dietary supplements can be associated with certain risks and side effects. Thirdly, self-medication can lead to a delay in making the correct diagnosis and prescribing effective treatment.
The doctor will help you evaluate potential risks and benefits from taking dietary supplements, and also talk about other possible treatment options. The doctor will also be able to track your condition and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.
VII. Conclusion: dietary supplements to improve a spermogram – is it worth it to take risks?
Dietary supplements to improve spermograms are a popular but contradictory means. Some studies show that individual components of dietary supplements can improve sperm, but most studies were small and had a limited methodology. Research results are often contradictory.
It is important to remember that dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality and safety control, and their reception may be associated with certain risks and side effects. Before you start taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor and consider alternative treatment methods, such as a change in lifestyle, drug therapy and ABT.
Ultimately, the decision to take dietary supplement to improve the spermogram should be made jointly with the doctor after a thorough assessment of potential risks and benefits. You should not self -medicate and hope for the miraculous properties of dietary supplements. The best approach to the treatment of male infertility is an integrated approach that includes a change in lifestyle, drug therapy and, if necessary, ABT.