Men in northern Spain have nearly double the total motile sperm count of those in central Spain, according to a multicentre study presented at the 42nd Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). The research suggests environmental pollutants, rather than lifestyle habits, drive these regional disparities in male fertility.
Why does sperm quality vary by region?
Geographical location and abstinence duration are the primary independent factors associated with semen parameters, according to the study. Researchers analyzed 386 men across seven assisted reproduction centres in Spain between June 2024 and December 2025 to determine why some regions perform better than others.
The data shows a stark contrast in reproductive health based on where a man lives. Men in northern Spain recorded an average total motile sperm count of 94.35 million. In contrast, men in central Spain averaged 50.11 million. The northern region also led in average sperm concentration (80.96 million/ml) and motility (44.79%).
Do lifestyle habits affect these results?
No. The study found that lifestyle patterns were broadly similar across all four regions studied (north, south, southeast, and central). This means factors like diet, exercise, and substance use do not explain the gap in sperm quality.
Participants provided data on body mass index (BMI), medical history, physical activity, smoking, alcohol, drug, and coffee consumption. Lead author Professor Rocío Núñez-Calonge stated that because lifestyle habits were similar, the variations likely relate to environmental exposures, such as pollution or contaminants.
Regional Sperm Quality Comparison
| Region | Avg. Total Motile Sperm Count | Reduced Motility Rate |
|---|---|---|
| North Spain | 94.35 Million | 23.9% |
| Central Spain | 50.11 Million | 53.4% |
| South Spain | Not specified | 55.4% |
What are the long-term implications for reproductive health?
The findings point toward a systemic issue with environmental toxins. Professor Núñez-Calonge highlighted that air pollution in urban environments deserves further investigation due to its potential impact on male fertility.
The study suggests that individual choices aren’t the only factor in fertility. Professor Dr. Karen Sermon, Immediate Past Chair of ESHRE, noted that environmental factors beyond individual control must be tackled at a societal and political level. Sermon explicitly stated there is a responsibility for national and EU regulators to address this.
Future trends in public health may require stricter policies to reduce exposure to industrial chemicals and plastic-derived compounds to protect future generations, according to Núñez-Calonge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is total motile sperm count?
It is the total number of sperm in an ejaculate that are moving effectively, which is a critical indicator of a man’s fertility potential.
What is asthenozoospermia?
According to the study, asthenozoospermia refers to reduced sperm motility.
What is teratozoospermia?
The research defines teratozoospermia as abnormal sperm morphology.
Can I improve my sperm quality through lifestyle?
While the study found regional environmental factors were the primary drivers of these specific differences, Professor Dr. Karen Sermon noted that a healthy lifestyle generally has a positive effect on sperm quality.
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