Yes, many people can have a child through IVF
Yes, many people with reduced sperm quality can have a child through IVF. The chances depend on factors including sperm count and function, the cause of the problems, and the age and quality of the eggs.
How can IVF help?
When sperm count or motility is low, ICSI is often used. This involves injecting a single sperm directly into the egg. The method helps the sperm fertilise the egg, but it does not improve the sperm itself or repair its genetic material.
If there are no sperm in the semen, it is sometimes possible to retrieve them from the testicle or epididymis and use them for ICSI. IMSI, in which sperm are examined at higher magnification, is also offered at some clinics. However, it has not been reliably shown to offer a better chance of having a child than standard ICSI.
Sperm contributes more than DNA
Sperm also contributes signals that activate the egg. Among other things, it triggers calcium signals that affect the egg’s energy production and early development.
Sperm can be compared to an ignition key for the egg’s machinery. It does not fill the egg with energy; instead, it helps activate important processes. This is why sperm function matters even with ICSI.
Lifestyle and age matter
As men age, sperm quality may decline and the risk of DNA damage may increase. These changes vary between individuals, and there is no fixed age limit for male fertility.
To support sperm production, you can:
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol.
- Exercise regularly, eat a varied diet and prioritise sleep.
- Avoid repeated exposure of the testicles to intense heat.
- Reduce stress and focus more on your health.
It takes about three months for new sperm to form and mature. Changes therefore take time, and healthier habits do not guarantee pregnancy.
How does Chinese medicine view this?
Traditional Chinese medicine, TCM, has a long tradition of helping with male fertility problems. We assess fertility alongside factors such as sleep, energy, digestion and behaviour during intercourse, as well as the tongue and pulse. Sperm production is strongly influenced by a man’s health. General ageing, previous illnesses, ongoing health problems and stress have a strong influence on male fertility.
According to TCM, the urinary system is governed by the kidneys. At our clinic, we have observed that men with urinary and prostate problems, as well as difficulties during intercourse, have also had poorer sperm quality. In TCM, these problems are closely related to kidney functions.
In TCM, Jing and kidney function are a major focus when treating male infertility. Stagnation, dampness and heat imbalance are among the most common problems we see at the clinic in men with reduced sperm quality. This means that the environment in which sperm develops is not optimal. This environment can always be improved.
We have also observed that when both partners attend our clinic, the chance of natural pregnancy increases.
We use this overall assessment to tailor our TCM treatment to individual symptoms and needs. Semen analysis and medical investigation are also needed to assess sperm quality.
Reduced sperm quality does not mean that the possibility of having a child is gone. Investigating the cause and improving lifestyle habits alongside fertility care can help create better conditions for sperm production.