The purpose of the sperm is to fertilize the egg, and in order to reach it, it needs to move quickly and unhindered along the genital tract. For this, the semen must have an optimal viscosity, the degree of which can be determined by the semen analysis. The fact is that as a result of a number of diseases, sperm becomes excessively thick, mucus and clots appear in it. The increased viscosity of the semen significantly reduces the likelihood of fertilization. This condition is called viscosipathy – ejaculate viscosity syndrome.

Causes of increased viscosity

Increased semen viscosity, determined by semen analysis, may occur for the following reasons:

inflammatory processes and infectious diseases of the reproductive system;

addiction to alcohol, tobacco, narcotic drugs;

taking anabolic drugs;

high protein diet;

violation of the water balance in the body;

prolonged sexual abstinence;

overweight;

lack of vitamins and minerals.

What diseases can occur

The main cause of viscosipathy is inflammation. They can be provoked by diseases such as prostatitis, orchitis, varicocele, epididymitis, vesiculitis.

Increased sperm viscosity in the spermogram is also observed in patients with circulatory and hormonal disorders. In rare cases, viscosipathy is a congenital condition.

Diagnostic methods

Semen viscosity syndrome is diagnosed during the semen analysis. Immediately after collection, the ejaculate has a dense consistency, as it has a very high protein content. Within 1 hour, it liquefies to a working condition, after which measurements are taken. A glass rod is placed in a container with semen and slowly raised. The resulting thread should not exceed 2 cm in length, which is the norm for the viscosity of the spermogram.

If the test result is unsatisfactory, the doctor prescribes additional examinations to identify the cause of this condition of semen. This can be ultrasound of the scrotum, examination of the prostate, bacterial culture from the urethra to identify urogenital infections of sexually transmitted diseases.

Treatment

In order to choose a method of treating viscosipathy, it is first of all important to identify the causes of thickening of the ejaculate and eliminate the underlying disease. Diagnostics begins with a comprehensive examination of the prostate in order to detect the focus of inflammation. After the localization of the site of occurrence of the inflammatory process, a course of drug therapy is prescribed, which implies the intake of targeted antibiotics. If the site of inflammation has not been established, broad-spectrum antibiotics are used for treatment.

As a supportive therapy, taking a course of vitamins, as well as zinc, is indicated. Vitamin C is also used to dilute semen at a dosage of 1000 mg.

In the case of a congenital syndrome of increased sperm viscosity, revealed by a spermogram, doctors recommend resorting to artificial insemination. For this, the sperm undergoes special processing before fertilization. If the cause of viscosipathy is poor circulation in the pelvic organs, the doctor prescribes electrophoresis, mud baths and drug therapy. Varicocele, an injury to the testicles that can also cause sperm to thicken, is treated with minimally invasive surgery. In the case of hormonal imbalance, the doctor prescribes hormone therapy to increase testosterone levels in the body.

Prophylaxis

As a preventive measure to reduce the viscosity of semen in the spermogram, it is recommended to reduce the intake of coffee and alcohol, it is advisable to get rid of the habit of smoking. It is recommended that you drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to maintain the consistency of the semen at the proper level.

The state of sperm and the body as a whole is favorably influenced by a favorable ecological situation. You need to try to spend a sufficient amount of time in the fresh air. Physical activity should be regular but moderate. For example, morning jogging in the park, active outdoor games.

Stressful situations also provoke an increase in semen viscosity in the spermogram. The calmer the emotional background, the better the state of the organism as a whole and the reproductive sphere in particular. In addition, doctors recommend monitoring your weight. Excessive fat accumulation negatively affects sperm activity.

Regular sexual activity helps maintain healthy sperm. The optimal frequency of intimacy is 3-5 times a week. Overheating of the genitals should also be avoided. It is advisable not to abuse the bath and sauna, you should not use the heated seats in the car unnecessarily.

A varied diet rich in protein, vitamins C, E and group B has a positive effect on sperm health. The diet should contain lean meat and fish, seafood, legumes, herbs, fruits and nuts. It is better to give up fast food, fatty and smoked products for a while.

Some time after the nutrition and lifestyle have been adjusted, it is necessary to take a spermogram again in order to track changes in the viscosity of the ejaculate.

Conclusion

In case of detection of increased semen viscosity in the spermogram, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Only he is able to conduct a comprehensive examination and prescribe adequate treatment. Self-medication not only does not bring positive results, but can also aggravate the situation. The health of the unborn child is the health of his parents. Do not neglect examinations, they will help to recognize the problem in time and cope with it.