Management of absolute asthenozoospermia

UPDATED ON 3 FEB. 2025

Infertility is a sensitive subject, especially when it comes to male factors like 100% immotile sperm, also known as absolute asthenospermia.

There is no known or scientific medical management available for this condition, and the male partners should actively seek treatment for this condition and avoid oral medications that don’t offer any benefit. This condition is believed to occur due to a defect in the tail of the sperm or a defect in the sperm mitochondria. There is limited scientific knowledge of the exact cause of this condition.

This condition can cause significant anxiety and confusion, especially when couples face challenges conceiving. As a center specializing in reproductive health, we often encounter questions about this condition.

To provide clarity and address common concerns, we have compiled detailed information about the condition, its implications, and the available treatment options.

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CONDITION

Asthenozoospermia

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What Does 100% Immotile Sperm Mean?

When semen analysis reveals 100% immotile sperm, it means that all the sperm in the sample lack movement. This is a critical finding because sperm motility is essential for natural conception. Without movement, sperm cannot reach and fertilize the egg. This condition can be particularly distressing for couples trying to conceive, as it limits natural reproductive options.

A semen analysis typically identifies this condition, showing no motile sperm in the sample. This can lead to a lot of confusion. Is the sperm alive or dead? Does this mean fathering a biological child is impossible? These are common concerns we address with patients facing this diagnosis.

In a healthy semen sample, up to 60% of sperm may be immotile, ensuring that at least 40% remain motile for effective fertility

Can Lifestyle Changes or Medications Improve Immotile Sperm?

Unfortunately, when sperm are 100% immotile, no medical or alternative therapy has been proven to restore their motility. While lifestyle improvements like a balanced diet, exercise, and avoiding harmful substances are always beneficial for overall reproductive health, they do not reverse immotility in such cases. Some couples turn to alternative therapies or supplements, often driven by false hopes, but these approaches have not shown any effectiveness in addressing this condition.

It’s important to focus on evidence-based solutions and avoid the frustration that comes with unproven remedies. This is why we emphasize understanding the root cause and exploring viable options with clear results.

Is IUI an Option for Immotile Sperm?

Couples often ask if intrauterine insemination (IUI) can help in cases of immotile sperm. The answer is no.

IUI relies on the ability of sperm to move and reach the egg on its own after being placed closer to it in the uterus. Without motility, IUI becomes ineffective.

This realization can be disheartening, but understanding why IUI is not suitable helps couples redirect their focus toward treatments that can work. This is where advanced reproductive technologies like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) come into play.

How Do We Determine If the Sperm Are Alive?

A crucial step in managing this condition is identifying whether the immotile sperm are alive or dead. Alive sperm, even if immotile, can be used for advanced treatments. To distinguish between live and dead sperm, a laboratory test called the hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) test is performed. This test checks for specific changes in sperm cells that indicate they are alive, despite their lack of movement.

This step is vital because it determines whether the couple can use the male partner’s sperm for treatments like ICSI. It’s a simple but significant test in the decision-making process.

What Is the Treatment for 100% Immotile Sperm?

The most effective treatment for this condition is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). This advanced procedure involves injecting a single sperm directly into the egg to achieve fertilization. For ICSI to be successful, we need to identify viable sperm—sperm that are alive, even if they are immotile.

To obtain such sperm, a procedure called testicular sperm extraction (TESE) is performed. Sperm are retrieved directly from the testis, where they are produced. These sperm are then subjected to tests, including laser stimulation, to confirm viability. When a laser is applied to a live sperm, its tail may flicker or bend, indicating that it is alive. Dead sperm show no response to this stimulation.

Dr. Jay Mehta is a highly trained embryologist and reproductive specialist. The technique that is applied by Dr. Jay Mehta is an extreme method where a LASER is applied over the tail of the sperm. The viable sperms will have the tails bent, and the non-viable sperms or the dead sperms won’t have similar characteristics. The LASER, which is used, is a highly specialized pulse frequency that is tailored just enough to prevent any form of excessive damage occurring to the sperm.

Dr. Jay Mehta practices the self-cycle PROGRAM in the clinic, and the clinic is highly sought after by couples who wish to have their genetic child. It’s due to these specialized procedures that we are able to give such couples a genetic offspring of their own.

What Happens During the ICSI Process?

Once viable sperm are identified, they are used in the ICSI procedure. Eggs are retrieved from the female partner following ovarian stimulation. Each viable sperm is carefully injected into an egg under a microscope. This precise process maximizes the chances of fertilization and allows couples to use their own genetic material to conceive.

The resulting embryos are then monitored for development and transferred into the uterus. While the success rates depend on various factors, including egg quality and the overall health of the couple, ICSI offers a significant chance of achieving pregnancy even in challenging cases.

What Are the Success Rates of ICSI for This Condition?

It’s important to have realistic expectations. In cases of 100% immotile sperm, the live birth rate following ICSI is approximately 25-30%. This rate reflects the complexity of the condition and the challenges involved in identifying and using viable sperm. Despite these odds, many couples have successfully conceived through this method.

We recommend discussing these success rates in detail with your specialist. Understanding what to expect helps you make informed decisions and prepare emotionally and practically for the process.

Are There Any Risks or Challenges?

Like any advanced reproductive procedure, ICSI comes with certain risks and challenges. The process of retrieving sperm from the testis can be invasive, and not all retrieved sperm may be viable. There is also the emotional aspect to consider, as the process can be physically and mentally demanding for both partners.

However, with proper guidance and support, these challenges can be managed effectively. Our team ensures that you have all the information and resources you need at every step.

What Should You Do Next?

If you or someone you know is dealing with 100% immotile sperm, it’s essential to consult Dr. Jay Mehta who is a specialist in male infertility treatment. The right evaluation and tailored treatment plan can make all the difference. We are here to help you navigate this challenging phase and explore the best options for your family.

Feel free to reach out to us for a consultation. Our team is ready to provide the expertise and support you need to take the next steps. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and with the right approach, achieving your dream of parenthood is possible.

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TREATMENT

Ovarian Cancer

CONDITION

Asthenozoospermia

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