Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to swim effectively through the female reproductive tract to reach and fertilise an egg.
When sperm don’t move well — or move at all — it becomes difficult or impossible to achieve pregnancy naturally.
If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, poor sperm motility might be the hidden factor.
Let’s break down the causes and what you can do about them.
❌ What Causes Low Sperm Motility?
1. Varicocele (Enlarged Veins in the Scrotum)
Varicocele is a common chronic pathology in men, caused by abnormal dilatation of veins in the scrotum that leads to impairment of regular semen parameters (1).
A varicocele can cause overheating in the testicles, which negatively affects sperm production and movement. It’s one of the most common causes of male infertility.
2. High Testicular Temperature
Frequent hot baths, using a laptop directly on your lap, or tight underwear can raise the temperature of the testicles, harming sperm motility.
Indeed, this is a common cause.
3. Smoking And Alcohol Use
Both cigarettes and excessive alcohol introduce toxins that lower sperm quality, including motility.
4. Obesity And Poor Diet
Being above your body mass index affects hormone levels and increases oxidative stress, both of which can impair sperm movement.
A poor diet lacking in antioxidants also contributes.
5. Infections (STIs Or Other Genital Infections)
Infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or prostatitis can damage sperm-producing cells or block sperm movement (2).
6. Excessive Stress
Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which interfere with testosterone production and semen quality.
7. Hormonal Imbalance
Low testosterone or other hormonal disruptions (like too much prolactin or LH/FSH issues) can reduce sperm count and movement (3).
8. Environmental Toxins
Exposure to pesticides, industrial chemicals, or heavy metals like lead or mercury can interfere with sperm development and function.
9. Recreational Drug Use
Drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and anabolic steroids are all known to reduce sperm motility and damage DNA.
10. Age
As men age, sperm motility naturally declines — especially after the age of 40.
🧪 How Is Low Sperm Motility Diagnosed?
A simple semen analysis is used to measure sperm motility. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), progressive motility below 32% is considered low.
💡 Can Low Sperm Motility Be Improved?
Yes! Here are some natural and medical strategies:
Wear loose underwear
Avoid heat sources near the groin
Quit smoking and alcohol
Eat foods rich in zinc, selenium, vitamin C and E
Manage stress with exercise or mindfulness
Take fertility-boosting supplements
Treat infections promptly
Consult a fertility doctor or expert for hormonal evaluation or assisted reproductive technologies like IUI or ICSI if needed
✅ Takeaway: Don’t Ignore Low Sperm Motility
Low sperm motility can significantly reduce a couple’s chances of conceiving — but it is not the end of the road.
Related Article
Sperm Leakage After Intercourse: Here Is What To Do
Here is what to do if you notice that sperm leaks out of the vagina after sexual intercourse.
With the right lifestyle changes, medical support, and testing, most men can significantly improve their chances of fathering a child.
🧠 FAQs
🤔 Can I still get my partner pregnant with low sperm motility?
Yes, especially if motility is only slightly reduced. But chances improve with treatment or assisted techniques like IUI/IVF.
🤔 Is low sperm motility reversible?
In many cases, yes — especially when caused by lifestyle factors, infections, or treatable conditions like varicocele.
🤔 What foods improve sperm motility?
Foods rich in antioxidants like walnuts, citrus fruits, spinach, pumpkin seeds, oysters, and tomatoes may help.
Ready to improve your fertility journey?
👨⚕️ Speak to our fertility specialist, start healthy lifestyle habits, and track your progress!