Spermia

Spermia is the presence or content of spermatozoa in semen. In clinical contexts, the term is used when discussing semen quality and male fertility.

Sperm production begins in the testes, in the seminiferous tubules, where spermatogenesis produces spermatids that mature into spermatozoa. This process, supported by Sertoli cells and regulated by hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone, takes about 64 days in humans. Sperm gain motility and fertilizing ability as they pass through the epididymis.

At ejaculation, sperm are joined by secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate, and bulbourethral glands, forming semen. Normal semen contains spermatozoa and a mix of fluids that provide nutrients, a protective environment, and a suitable pH, typically slightly alkaline.

Semen analysis is a standard tool for evaluating male fertility. It assesses parameters such as volume, pH, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, and morphology. Reference ranges vary by guideline, but deviations may indicate fertility problems. Common abnormalities include oligospermia (low sperm count), asthenozoospermia (reduced motility), teratozoospermia (abnormal morphology), and azoospermia (no sperm).

Clinical relevance: Spermia encompasses normal variation and pathological conditions. Causes of reduced sperm production or function include genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, infections, lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, obesity), medications, and environmental exposures. Management ranges from lifestyle modification and hormonal therapy to assisted reproductive technologies such as intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection when appropriate.