Consequences of oxidative stress on sperm

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are molecules found in the body due to normal oxygen metabolism. However, an uncontrolled increase in ROS causes oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress affects male reproductive capacity, as it is the cause of sperm fragmentation, sperm motility problems and alterations in sperm shape. In addition, a high percentage of ROS in men makes it difficult for the sperm to interact with the egg and, therefore, for fertilization to occur.