Round Sperm Cells: Causes, Effects, And Treatment
Round sperm cells have a round head, unlike the normal oval-shaped head. Round-headed sperm can’t swim properly or fertilize an egg as easily because of their abnormal shape.
Treatment of round-headed sperm condition, also called globozoospermia, is possible with medical management and lifestyle changes. However, in some cases, for example, when genetics is responsible for round sperm formation, there is no treatment possible.
In this article, we will discuss the difference between normal sperm and round-headed sperm. We will also discuss the causes of round sperm cells and how to improve sperm morphology [1].
Difference Between Normal & Round Sperm Cells
The head of a normal sperm is oval in shape, helping it swim to the egg [2]. When sperm reaches the egg, the normal head shape will also give the possibility for fertilization.
While round sperm cells are those with an abnormal round head. It is apparent that this difference in the structure of the head affects their ability to swim properly. Their shape also impacts how the sperm can penetrate the egg during fertilization.
In short words, rounded sperm cells reduce the possibilities of successful fertilization.
What causes round cells in sperm?
There are multiple causes for the formation of round-headed sperm cells. Some common causes for round sperm formation are:
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Genetic Mutations
Genetic mutations or mutations in DNA can cause the formation of round sperm cells [3]. These mutations can affect the proteins responsible for the formation of normal sperm heads. The absence of this protein causes round head formation of sperm cells.
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Infections
A 2022 study shows that infections in the body can lead to the formation of round sperm cells [4]. For example, infections in the reproductive tract, such as epididymitis or prostatitis, can affect sperm shape.
This is why the increased presence of round sperm cells in semen analysis can be an indication of infection in the body.
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Lifestyle Choices
Studies show that different lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol can affect sperm shape [4].
Poor diet is also a factor responsible for the formation of round-headed sperm cells. This is because some essential nutrients such as vitamin C, zinc, and folate are necessary for the formation of healthy sperm [5]. A deficiency of these nutrients can negatively impact sperm morphology and cause round sperm cell formation.
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How to Improve Sperm Morphology?
Enhancing sperm morphology can significantly improve overall sperm viability, increasing the likelihood of successful fertilization. Here are some practical ways to improve sperm morphology:
Medical Treatments
Treatment option for abnormal sperm formation varies depending on the cause. There is no treatment for round sperm cells if the cause is genetic mutation.
However, you can treat the infections responsible for the formation of round sperm, improving sperm morphology. Treatment for infections commonly includes antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications.
You must consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medications to treat infection.
Lifestyle Changes
Healthy lifestyle habits can also improve sperm morphology. Here are some of the lifestyle choices that can promote healthy sperm formation and enhance overall reproductive health:
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Incorporating fertility supplements with nutrients such as folate, zinc, and vitamin C into your diet can support the development of healthy sperm morphology and help reduce the occurrence of abnormalities like round-headed sperm cells.
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A Balanced Diet: The body requires nutrients for the formation of healthy sperm. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can improve sperm health.
- Exercise Routine: Research shows that regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight [6]. A 2017 study by the Asian Journal of Andrology shows that body weight can significantly impact sperm parameters and overall male fertility [7].
Exercise also improves testosterone levels in the body — a hormone responsible for sperm formation.
- Limiting Alcohol And Smoking: Alcohol consumption and smoking can negatively impact the normal sperm shape and sperm formation, and lead to decreased sperm. Limiting alcohol consumption can improve sperm health and other semen parameters. Research shows that quitting smoking can also help in improving sperm count, motility, and morphology [8].
Conclusion
Sperm cell shape significantly influences the chances of conception. If a sperm cell has a normal head, it can easily swim inside the female reproductive tract. This helps the sperm cells to reach the egg and fertilize it.
On the other hand, round sperm cells can’t effectively swim and travel towards the egg. The round shape also interferes the normal penetration of sperm into the egg for fertilization.
However, there are different treatment options to improve sperm morphology and increase the chances of successful fertilization. Lifestyle improvements can also greatly improve sperm parameters and overall fertility status.
Resources Used
- Understanding Sperm Morphology and Fertility. Conceive Plus®. https://conceiveplus.com/blogs/blog/sperm-morphology-and-fertility
- Abnormal sperm morphology: What does it mean? (2022, December 21). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-infertility/expert-answers/sperm-morphology/faq-20057760
- Globozoospermia: MedlinePlus Genetics. (n.d.). https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/globozoospermia/
- Long, S., & Kenworthy, S. (2022). Round Cells in Diagnostic Semen Analysis: A Guide for Laboratories and Clinicians. British Journal of Biomedical Science, 79. https://doi.org/10.3389/bjbs.2021.10129
- What Vitamins Should A Man Take When Trying To Conceive. Conceive Plus®. https://conceiveplus.com/blogs/blog/what-vitamins-should-a-man-take-when-trying-to-conceive
- Cox, C. E. (2017). Role of Physical Activity for Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance. Diabetes Spectrum : A Publication of the American Diabetes Association, 30(3), 157-160. https://doi.org/10.2337/ds17-0013
- Wang, Y., Huang, Y., Du, Y., Yao, D., & Sun, P. (2017). Body mass index effects sperm quality: A retrospective study in Northern China. Asian Journal of Andrology, 19(2), 234-237. https://doi.org/10.4103/1008-682X.169996
- Kovac, J. R., Khanna, A., & Lipshultz, L. I. (2015). The Effects of Cigarette Smoking on Male Fertility. Postgraduate Medicine, 127(3), 338. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.2015.1015928
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Yes, round sperm cells (globozoospermia) can significantly impact fertility because their abnormal shape prevents proper swimming and reduces their ability to penetrate and fertilize an egg. However, having some round sperm cells doesn't always mean infertility—fertility specialists evaluate the percentage of round sperm in relation to overall sperm morphology using standardized WHO criteria. Many men with round sperm can still father children naturally or with assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or ICSI.
How is globozoospermia diagnosed in the US?
Globozoospermia is diagnosed through a semen analysis performed at an American fertility clinic, where a laboratory technician examines sperm shape and morphology under a microscope according to World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The test measures the percentage of sperm with normal oval heads versus abnormal round heads. If abnormalities are found, your fertility specialist may recommend genetic testing or additional evaluation to identify underlying causes.
Are there FDA-approved treatments for round sperm cells?
There is no FDA-approved medication specifically targeting globozoospermia itself, though treating underlying causes like infections with antibiotics or improving nutrition may help improve sperm morphology. For genetic forms of globozoospermia, assisted reproductive technologies such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) during IVF are the most effective options and are widely available at American fertility clinics. Your reproductive endocrinologist can recommend the best treatment approach based on the cause and severity of your condition.
Does my insurance cover treatment for round sperm cells?
Insurance coverage for globozoospermia treatment varies significantly by plan and state, as fertility treatments are not mandated by all insurance companies in the US. Diagnostic semen analysis may be covered under standard medical benefits, but assisted reproductive procedures like IVF with ICSI typically require separate fertility coverage. Contact your insurance provider directly to understand your benefits, and ask your fertility clinic about payment plans or grants, as many offer financial assistance programs.
Can lifestyle changes improve round sperm morphology?
Yes, lifestyle modifications can help improve sperm morphology if the round sperm is caused by poor diet, smoking, or alcohol use—these changes typically take 2-3 months to show results since sperm takes about 74 days to fully develop. Increasing nutrients like zinc, vitamin C, and folate through diet or supplements, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress can all support healthier sperm production. However, if round sperm is caused by genetic mutations, lifestyle changes alone may not resolve the condition, and you may need to explore fertility treatments.
What is the success rate of IVF with ICSI for round sperm?
ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) can achieve fertilization rates of 50-80% even with severely abnormal sperm morphology, including round sperm cells, because the procedure directly injects sperm into the egg. Overall pregnancy and live birth rates depend on multiple factors including age, egg quality, and embryo development, so success varies by individual case. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) recommends ICSI as a standard treatment option for male factor infertility, and your fertility clinic can provide personalized success rate estimates.
Should I get genetic testing if I have globozoospermia?
Genetic testing may be recommended if you have globozoospermia, especially if it's severe or if you have a family history of infertility, as certain genetic mutations are responsible for this condition. Your fertility specialist or a genetic counselor can determine whether testing is appropriate for your situation and what it might reveal about your reproductive options. Even if genetic causes are identified, treatment options like ICSI and IVF are still available to help you achieve pregnancy.
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