Why do people have dead sperm?

Necrozoospermia may be caused by reproductive system infections, varicocele, endocrine abnormalities, exposure to environmental toxins, and poor living habits. Necrozoospermia refers to a significant reduction in the survival rate of sperm in semen, usually manifesting as infertility or reduced fertility.

1. Reproductive system infection:

Inflammations such as prostatitis and epididymitis can cause changes in semen composition, directly damage sperm cell membranes or interfere with energy metabolism. Mycoplasma and chlamydia infections may trigger an immune response and produce anti-sperm antibodies. In this case, antibiotic treatment is needed to control the infection, and antioxidants are used to improve sperm quality.

2. Varicocele:

Obstruction of scrotal venous return will increase the local temperature of the testicles, affecting DNA stability during spermatogenesis. Patients often experience scrotal swelling, and in severe cases, vermiform veins can be seen. Microscopic spermatic vein ligation can effectively improve the testicular microenvironment, and the postoperative sperm survival rate can be increased by 30%-50%.

3. Endocrine abnormalities:

Hypopituitarism, thyroid disease, etc. can interfere with the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, resulting in insufficient testosterone synthesis. Such patients are often accompanied by changes in secondary sexual characteristics such as loss of sexual desire and slow beard growth. After supplementing chorionic gonadotropin or adjusting thyroid function, spermatogenic function can be gradually restored.

4. Environmental toxin exposure:

Long-term exposure to pollutants such as heavy metals and pesticides can induce oxidative stress and damage sperm mitochondrial function. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in car exhaust can directly damage sperm DNA. It is recommended that those engaged in chemical, printing and other industries conduct semen analysis regularly and change jobs if necessary.

5. Lifestyle factors:

The nicotine produced by smoking reduces testicular blood flow, and alcohol abuse interferes with the liver's inactivation of estrogen. Behaviors such as wearing tight pants and sitting for long periods of time can increase the scrotal temperature by 0.5-1°C. Measures to improve pelvic blood circulation, such as adjusting work and rest, increasing squats, etc., can significantly improve mild necrozoospermia.

It is recommended that men preparing for pregnancy maintain aerobic exercise for 30 minutes three times a week and increase the intake of zinc-rich foods such as oysters and nuts in their diet. Avoid putting your mobile phone in your trouser pocket to reduce the impact of ionizing radiation. Conduct routine semen examinations regularly. If the sperm survival rate is found to be less than 40%, you should seek medical treatment promptly. For idiopathic necrozoospermia, intracytoplasmic sperm injection in assisted reproductive technology can effectively solve the fertility problem.