Abnormal Sperm Morphology: What Does It Mean?

the size and shape of sperm — is one of the things checked in a semen
analysis for male infertility. Sperm morphology results are reported as the
percentage of sperm that appear normal when semen is viewed under a
microscope. Normal sperm have an oval head with a long tail. Abnormal
sperm have head or tail defects — such as a large or misshapen head or a
crooked or double tail. These defects may affect the ability of the sperm to
reach and penetrate an egg. However, having a large percentage of
misshapen sperm isn’t uncommon; in fact, if your sperm sample contains
only 4 percent “morphologically normal forms,” it’s considered normal.
Morphology is just one piece of a fertility analysis and, by itself, does not
determine fertility. Other important factors checked in a sperm analysis
are: Semen volume Total sperm number Sperm concentration Vitality of
sperm Motility of sperm If a semen analysis shows irregularities in any of
these areas, a wait-and-see approach is generally tried first. Another
semen analysis is usually done after four to six weeks to see whether sperm
quality has improved on its own. If there are still abnormalities, tests may
be necessary to look for an underlying problem. Even with abnormal
sperm morphology, motility problems or a low sperm count, it’s important
to remember that an abnormal semen analysis does not mean you are
infertile. Many men with low semen analysis values are still able to father
children. It just may take longer, a year or more. If you and your partner
aren’t able to conceive through s*xual intercourse, assisted reproductive
technology such as in vitro fertilization may be an option.