Under the control of above-mentioned hormones germs cells divide & transformed into
primary spermatocytes. Then further maturation of primary spermatocytes to spermatids
& then finally into mature spermatozoa (i.e. normal sperms) occurs under the control
of above-mentioned hormones. After few weeks of progressive maturation inside the
testis these sperms become normally motile & develop the capacity to fertilize the
ovum. This total sperm cycle, from first stage to final stage of normal mature sperms
is of three months. Thus to produce normal sperms testis should have normal sperm
producing germ cells & normal regulating hormones. Any major hindrance in the development
of these spermatozoa will lead to absent sperm production resulting into nil sperm.
What causes azoospermia?
Azoospermia may occur if the flow of sperm is blocked and cannot leave the body
(obstructive cause). Azoospermia may also be caused by a problem with sperm production
(nonobstructive cause).
Obstructive azoospermia :
- Genetic conditions such as congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens,
may affect sperm transport
- Infections of the male reproductive system, such as in the testicles or prostate,
may affect male fertility.
- Trauma may cause azoospermia. Previous injury or surgery to the spine, pelvis,
lower abdomen, or male sex organs may cause damage to the male reproductive system.
This may include surgery on an inguinal (groin) hernia. Trauma may affect sperm
production or cause an obstruction in the flow or transport of sperm.
- A varicocele is a condition that causes the veins (blood vessels) in the
scrotum to become enlarged and dilated (widened).
Nonobstructive azoospermia :
- Medicines such as steroids, antibiotics, and medicines used to treat inflammation
or cancer may affect male fertility.
- Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs may also cause problems
with sperm production.
- Genetic conditions may affect sperm production or development of reproductive
organs. These include Klinefelter syndrome and Kallmann syndrome.
- Abnormal hormone levels may be caused by disorders of the testicles. This
may affect the production of sperm.
- Radiation used to treat cancer may affect sperm production.
- Retrograde ejaculation is a condition that causes semen to travel into the
bladder instead of outside the body. It is usually caused by a problem with the
neck of the bladder and may be due to spinal cord injuries, medicines, or diabetes.
- Other causes include pesticides, heavy metals, heat, and undescended testes
(testicles that did move from the abdomen into the scrotum). Any of these can affect
sperm production.
What are the signs and symptoms of azoospermia?
- Inability to get your partner pregnant
- Increased body fat, body hair, and breast tissue
- Clear, watery, or whitish discharge from the penis
- Presence of a mass or swelling on the scrotum that feels like a bag of worms (varicocele)
- Stress or emotional pressure from not being able to conceive a child
- Testicles that are small, soft, or cannot be felt
- Veins that are enlarged, twisted, and may be seen in the scrotum (varicocele)
Self-care :
- Avoid chemicals : Chemicals, such as pesticides, may lower your sperm count.
- Reduce alcohol intake : Alcohol decreases sperm production.
- Do not smoke : If you smoke, it is never too late to quit. Nicotine may affect
the condition of your semen.
- Do not take hot baths or wear tight underwear : Heat decreases sperm production.
Tight underwear, such as briefs, keeps testicles close to the body. This can increase
their temperature and decrease sperm production.
- Vitamins & Minerals : Minerals and vitamins are very important for normal
functioning of your body, and some of them can really help you increase sperm count
naturally. As a result, you must consume foods that are rich in vitamins B and C,
zinc and chromium. In order to increase your daily intake of the mentioned substances,
you can also take different supplements.
- Stay in good shape : A good physical condition is often the key to avoiding
fertility problems in men. By exercising regularly exercises, you not only stimulate
the development of your muscular mass and the functioning of your internal organs,
but you also maintain your weight under control. Many studies prove that men who
are excessively thin or overweight have lower chances to become parents.
Ayurvedic treatment for Azoospermia
There is no satisfactory treatment of Azoospermia in allopathic treatment system
hence ayurvedic treatment is most preferred treatment for this condition. The treatment
involves both medicinal treatment as well as Panchkarma treatment for the same.
Medicinal Treatment :
Various herbs are known for their effects in increasing the sperm count of the patients
eg. Safed Musli, Gokshr, Satavari, Ashwaganda, Shilajit, Kawach etc. Along with
the herbs there are various classical combinations which are very helpful for treating
this condition like Makardhwaj wati, Suwarna Siddha Makardhwaj, Shilajeetvadi wati,
etc. Evidence of the use of herbal remedies for male infertility dates all the way
back to 5000 BC. Here are some beneficial ayurvedic plants and remedies. Gokshur
is one of the herbs that cure azoospermia. It is used for many years in fertility
related problems, low male libido and other sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction.
Gokshur increases the level of estrogen and testosterone and also improves the blood
circulation in the entire area, but mainly in the reproductive system and the urinary
tract.
Safed musli is highly recommended by specialists in the Ayurvedic medicine because
it seems to have properties that improve semen count, semen volume and sperm motility.
These are the main factors that affect the fertility in men. Safed musli is also
helpful in a great variety of other conditions generated by a malfunctioning of
the reproductive system. It seems to be increasing both fertility and performance
in men.
Mucuna Pruriens (Kawach) is a medicinal plant, which has been mentioned in the treatises
of ancient Indian texts such as the 'Charaka Samhita' and the 'Susrutha Samhita'.
In Hindi, it is called 'Kawach'. Mucuna pruriens is the most powerful aphrodisiac.
It also increases the testosterone level and the libido, by stimulating the production
of dopamine. Mucuna pruriens also has effects at the level of the nervous system,
toning it and increasing sensitivity and coordination.
Shilajit is an excellent restorative and rejuvenating tonic, it ensures good physical
performance for the individual and leads to balanced and harmonious health. Shilajit
is also known as sex tonic in India as it increases the core energy responsible
for sexual drive or libido. It balances debility, general fatigue and provides strength
to muscles and bones.
Aswagandha is another very effective herbal treatment for Azoospermia. This herb
is renowned for providing anti-ageing effects and maintains secretion of human growth
hormone. Regular intake of this herb keeps nerves relaxed and energized and also
prevents occurrence of health disorders like anxiety, stress and depression, it
also improves libido, controls blood sugar and maintains thyroid functions.
Satavari is another herbal treatment for Azoospermia which is used in various medicines
and provides very effective natural cure to the problem. This herb rejuvenates reproductive
organs and improves sperm quality naturally. This herb has been used to increase
semen volume, sperm quantity and sperm motility since ancient times and is free
of side effects.
Ayurvedic Panchkarma therapies :
A special panchkarma procedure known as Uttar basti is very helpful for this condition,
Uttar basti should be given under the supervision of a trained ayurvedic doctor
only.