June 5th 2024.
A recent study conducted by researchers has found no evidence to support the popular belief that sperm count is decreasing. Despite concerns from the public, the team discovered that the average sperm concentration has remained stable between 2017 and 2022, based on data from the world's largest sperm bank in Denmark.
However, the researchers did observe a decline in the number of high-quality, motile sperm starting in 2020. This coincided with the COVID-19 lockdowns, which may have had an impact on men's diet and physical activity. Professor Allan Pacey, one of the study authors, explained that this decline in sperm motility can be easily improved with a healthy lifestyle, but it does not necessarily indicate a decrease in overall sperm counts.
In fact, Professor Pacey emphasized that this widely held belief is based on a previous study that looked at published data rather than primary data. He stressed the importance of relying on primary data, like the one used in their study, for more accurate and reliable results.
The team analyzed sperm samples from 6,758 men aged 18-45 who were sperm donors at Cryos International, where samples were analyzed within an hour of production. They found that from 2019 onwards, there was a 16% decrease in the concentration of motile sperm and a 22% decrease in total motile sperm count. This is the first time that sperm motility has been investigated, and the results are intriguing.
Professor Pacey explained that this is because most sperm counting is done manually, while Cryos International uses computers for more precise measurements. He also shared some interesting facts about sperm, such as the average ejaculation containing 200-300 million sperm and it taking two to three months for a single sperm to be produced.
However, external factors such as smoking, excessive heat, and being overweight can affect the health of sperm. Professor Robert Montgomerie, a co-author of the study, clarified that there is no evidence to suggest that the COVID-19 virus directly affects sperm. He speculated that the lockdowns may have led to changes in working patterns, diet, and physical activity, which can impact sperm motility.
Professor Pacey mentioned that monitoring the semen quality in this sperm donor population over time could provide more detailed answers. He expressed his interest in continuing to study this topic and looking at the data again in a few years to see if there are any changes.
Professor Chris Barratt, from the University of Dundee, commented on the research, stating that previous studies have not adequately investigated sperm motility. He praised this study for its large sample size and high-quality methods, which support the idea of focusing on sperm quality rather than quantity.
This research, published in the journal Human Reproduction, sheds light on the current state of sperm counts and emphasizes the importance of using primary data for more reliable results. It also highlights the impact of external factors on sperm health and the need for further research in this area.
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