Oligoasthenoteratospermia (OAT) refers to a low sperm count, low sperm motility, and low normal sperm morphology. It is often correlated with severe chromosomal issues (meaning that the genetic components of the sperm cells can be altered and damaged).
Sperm cells are very sensitive to what is known as "Oxidative Stress." Oxidative stress is when the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is greater than the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the tissue. The inability to neutralize the ROS in this scenario leads to development of a toxic byproduct known as free radicals. The free radicals are able to damage the DNA, proteins, and cellular membranes of various cells, including sperm cells.
A recent study published in September 2017 looked at 210 men with OAT who were treated with an antioxidant protocol and specific lifestyle changes. After 6 months of treatment there was a significant increase in the Sperm counts, sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology.
The study suggests that the use of certain antioxidants may help to reduce the oxidative stress in Males dealing with infertility, and when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, may increase basic sperm parameters.
Reference:
Magdi, Y., Darwish, E., Elbashir, S., Majzoub, A., & Agarwal, A. (2016). Effect of modifiable lifestyle factors and antioxidant treatment on semen parameters of men with severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. Andrologia, 49(7).
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