Oxidative stress occurs when reactive oxygen species (ROS) exceed the body’s antioxidant defense capacity. While low levels of ROS are necessary for sperm maturation, excessive oxidative stress damages sperm membranes and DNA.
Contributing factors include smoking, obesity, infection, environmental toxins, and varicocele. Elevated oxidative stress correlates with reduced sperm motility and increased DNA fragmentation.
Diagnostic tests measuring oxidative stress markers are increasingly utilized in fertility evaluation. Antioxidant supplementation—such as vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, and zinc—may improve erotic semen parameters in selected patients.
Lifestyle modification remains fundamental in reducing oxidative damage and preserving reproductive potential.
Leave a Reply