Pyospermia – Definition, Causes and Treatment Options
1. Definition
Pyospermia, also known as leukocytospermia, is a medical condition in which an unusually high number of white blood cells (pus cells) are found in a man’s semen. These cells are part of the body’s immune system and usually help fight infections. However, when present in large quantities in semen, they may indicate inflammation or infection in the male reproductive tract.
2. Key Takeaways
- Pyospermia refers to the presence of pus cells, specifically white blood cells, within a man’s semen.
- More than 1 million WBCs per millilitre of semen is considered abnormal.
- It may affect sperm health, movement and DNA integrity.
- Often linked to infections, STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) or inflammation in the prostate, testicles or seminal vesicles.
- This condition can either be short-term or long-lasting and might occur without any noticeable signs.
- Timely diagnosis can improve chances of natural conception.
3. Why Pyospermia Diagnosis is Important for Fertility
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Sperm Function Is Compromised
Pus cells release reactive oxygen species (ROS), which damage sperm by attacking their outer membranes. This can affect their ability to move (motility) and reduce the likelihood of reaching and fertilising an egg.
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DNA Damage in Sperm
Too many white blood cells can cause oxidative stress, which harms the sperm’s DNA. Poor DNA quality can lead to miscarriage or failed IVF attempts, even if fertilisation occurs.
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Underlying Infections May Be Present
Pyospermia is frequently linked to hidden health problems, such as an infection in the urethra or swelling of the prostate gland, known as prostatitis. Addressing the underlying infection can help eliminate the pus cells and enhance the overall quality of the sperm.
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May Impact Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)
For men undergoing IUI, IVF or ICSI, pus in semen may lower the success rate. Semen washing may help in such cases, but identifying and treating the cause is crucial.
4. Example / User Case
A 34-year-old man and his partner were trying to conceive for over a year without success. His semen analysis showed normal count but high white blood cells. He had no noticeable symptoms. After further tests, he was diagnosed with a low-grade prostate infection causing pyospermia.
His doctor prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicine. Three months later, his follow-up semen analysis was clear, and the couple successfully conceived naturally.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What causes pyospermia?
Common causes include bacterial infections, viral infections, STDs and prostate inflammation. Sometimes, the cause remains unknown.
Q2. Is pyospermia a sign of an STD?
Not always. While some STDs like chlamydia or gonorrhoea can lead to pyospermia, it can also occur due to non-infectious inflammation.
Q3. Can I still father a child if I have pyospermia?
Yes, but your chances may be reduced. Treating the underlying issue often improves sperm quality and fertility outcomes.
Q4. How is pyospermia diagnosed?
A standard semen analysis checks the number of white blood cells. Advanced testing can include culture tests, DNA fragmentation tests or oxidative stress tests.
Q5. What is the treatment for pyospermia?
Treatment depends on the cause. Options include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle changes or abstinence for a few days to reduce cell build-up.
Q6. Is pyospermia painful or visible?
Most men don’t notice any symptoms. Sometimes, semen may appear slightly yellowish or cloudy, but that is not always the case.
6. Call to Action
If you and your partner have been struggling to conceive and a semen analysis shows abnormal results, don’t ignore pus cells in semen. Pyospermia may not cause obvious symptoms but can silently affect your fertility. Consult a urologist or fertility specialist to get the right diagnosis and start treatment early. Your future family may depend on it.
7. Relevant Terms
- Semen Analysis
- White Blood Cells (WBCs)
- Leukocytospermia
- Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)
- Prostatitis
- Sperm Motility
- DNA Fragmentation
- Seminal Vesicles
- Antibiotic Therapy
- Oxidative Stress
