1. Basic requirements for sperm for IVF

Although IVF technology can help many couples who are infertile due to sperm problems realize their childbearing dreams, the quality and quantity of sperm still need to meet certain standards. The following are IVF

The main requirements for sperm

(1) Sperm count

According to the fifth edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) semen analysis standards, the sperm concentration should reach ≥ 15 million/ml, or the total number of sperm per ejaculation should reach ≥ 39 million. If sperm count

Below this standard may affect the success rate of IVF.

(2) Sperm vitality

Sperm vitality refers to the ability of sperm to move and is an important indicator for assessing sperm quality. In general, the proportion of forward motile sperm (PR) should reach ≥32%, or forward motile sperm plus

The proportion of non-forward motile sperm (NP) should reach ≥40%. The higher the sperm vitality, the higher the success rate of fertilization.

(3) Sperm morphology

The shape of sperm can also affect the success rate of IVF. The proportion of normal sperm should reach ≥4%. Although IVF technology can relax this standard to a certain extent, the shape is normal

sperm more easily penetrate the egg and complete fertilization.

(iv) Other indicators

In addition to the above main indicators, other indicators of semen will also affect the success rate of IVF

Semen

volume: The semen volume per ejaculation should reach ≥1.5ml.

pH value: The pH value of semen should be between 7.2 and 8.0.

White blood cell count: White blood cell count should be less than 1 million/ml to avoid infection.

2. Requirements for sperm in different IVF technologies

(1) First generation of IVF

The first-generation IVF technology is mainly suitable for infertility caused by female factors, but it also has certain requirements on the quality of sperm. The sperm concentration should reach ≥ 15 million/ml, and the proportion of forward moving sperm should be

reaches ≥32%.

(2) Second Generation IVF (ICSI)

The second-generation IVF technology (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) mainly targets problems such as low sperm count and poor vitality in men. This technology has relatively low requirements on sperm count. In theory, as long as there is

One living sperm can complete fertilization. However, it is generally required that the proportion of forward moving sperm reach ≥20%.

(3) The third generation of IVF (PGD/PGS)

The third-generation IVF technology adds genetic screening and diagnosis before embryo transfer, and requires relatively high sperm quality. The sperm concentration should reach ≥ 15 million/ml, and the proportion of forward moving sperm

Should reach ≥20%. In addition, the shape and DNA integrity of the sperm can also affect the quality and success rate of the embryo.

3. What should I do if the sperm quality is not up to standard?

If a man's sperm quality is not up to standard, don't worry too much. Here are some ways to improve sperm quality

(1) Lifestyle adjustments

Quit smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol abuse can significantly reduce sperm quality.

Avoid high temperature environments: Long-term hot baths, saunas and other high temperature environments can affect sperm production.

Maintain a healthy diet: Increasing the intake of foods rich in vitamins C, E and zinc can help improve sperm quality.

(2) Drug treatment

For men with poor sperm quality, doctors may recommend the use of some drugs, such as antioxidants, hormone regulating drugs, etc.

(3) Assisted reproductive technology

If the sperm quality is still not up to standard, consider using assisted reproductive technology, such as second-generation in vitro fertilization (ICSI). This technology can directly inject sperm into the egg, greatly improving the rate of fertilization

Success rate.

IVF has certain requirements on the quantity, vitality, and shape of sperm. Generally speaking, the sperm concentration should reach ≥ 15 million/ml, and the proportion of forward moving sperm should reach ≥32%. Normal shape

The proportion of sperm should reach ≥4%. For men with poor sperm quality, consider using second-generation in vitro fertilization technology (ICSI), which requires relatively low sperm count.