White blood cells protect the body from infection, and if their concentration in semen exceeds the permissible limits, this indicates the presence of inflammatory processes or infections in the genitourinary and reproductive systems. To fight the external enemy, white blood cells secrete free radicals that destroy inflammatory foci, but at the same time destroy the shell of the sperm. This can trigger an oxidative process that leads to DNA damage, and the high white blood cell count in sperm inhibits sperm motility. An increased white blood cell count in a spermogram is called leukospermia.

High levels of white blood cells in the spermogram can lead to the formation of adhesions of the vas deferens, genetic mutations that are fraught with disorders of intrauterine development of the fetus up to death, as well as to a decrease in potency.

If the patient has at least one of the following signs: a change in the color of sperm to a rich yellow, pain in the scrotum and perineum, discomfort during urination, discharge from the urethra, – you should seek medical help as soon as possible.

Reasons for an increase in the level of leukocytes

Elevated leukocytes in men in the spermogram may indicate the following diseases:

• sexually transmitted infections (syphilis, gonorrhea, mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis). With a confirmed diagnosis, it is recommended to undergo treatment for both partners. For this period, it is worth refraining from sexual intercourse.
• inflammatory processes in the prostate;
• diseases of the genitourinary sphere, such as cystitis, vesiculitis, urethritis;
• pathology of the scrotum and testicles.

Infectious diseases underlie 15% of male infertility. Leukospermia caused by chronic diseases is the most difficult to correct.

A pathological condition can also occur as a result of bad habits and prolonged abstinence from intimacy, which causes sperm stagnation.

Indicators and norms

The generally accepted norm of leukocytes in the spermogram is considered to be an amount not exceeding 1 million in 1 ml, or not more than 5 pieces in the field of view of the microscope. A slight excess of the norm of leukocytes in the spermogram (up to 10-15 pieces in the field of view) can be caused by hypothermia, fatigue, alcohol intoxication, stress.

To minimize the likelihood of obtaining false readings, it is recommended to do a spermogram in a calm state, without signs of illness, including colds. Doctors recommend testing after a weekend or vacation. It is advisable to avoid heavy loads during this period, but at the same time not to neglect moderate physical activity, to normalize nutrition and sleep.