What are the Treatments Available for Leukocytospermia?

What are the Treatments Available for Leukocytospermia?

Male infertility accounts for around 50% of infertility cases. Leukocytospermia is a male genital condition that is detected in about 5% of these cases. This is a condition characterized by higher than normal levels of white blood cells in semen. This makes the semen appear yellowish and can damage the sperm morphology and DNA structure. The good news is that this condition is relatively easy to manage and treat.

Treatment for Leukocytospermia

The main aim of treating this condition is to lower white blood cell levels in semen. This can improve sperm functioning and make it easier for a couple to conceive. Some simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in this effort. These changes include:

  • Quit smoking and the use of any other tobacco-based products
  • Stop drinking alcohol
  • Quit marijuana use
  • Ejaculate more frequently
  • Take antioxidant supplements that contain vitamin C, vitamin E, Glutathione and Coenzyme ubiquinol-10 (CoQ10)

If the condition is caused by an underlying bacterial infection, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed. The entire course of these antibiotics should be taken even if the symptoms subside. In some cases, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) may also be prescribed to increase sperm count.

Leukocytospermia may also be caused by physical abnormalities such as a varicocele. In such cases, surgery may be required to correct the issue. This helps reduce the white blood cell count in semen and improves semen production. In other cases where Leukocytospermia is caused by prostatic obstruction, urethral valves may need to be implanted.

Follow-up

In most cases where antibiotics are prescribed, a follow-up check is needed after about 3 months. A semen analysis will be taken at this stage to check for the presence of microorganisms that may contribute to the condition. If the treatment has not been successful, semen culture and anti-sperm antibody testing may also be needed. In some cases, NSAIDs may be prescribed for up to a month.