Total Motility
Fertility marker
Total Motility
Percentage of sperm showing any movement (progressive + non-progressive). WHO 6th edition lower reference limit is 42%.
PED Notes
Motility is severely impaired by AAS-induced hormonal disruption. Even residual sperm during AAS use often show poor motility due to disrupted epididymal maturation from low intratesticular testosterone. During recovery post-PCT, motility typically lags behind concentration recovery — sperm may return before quality does. HCG on cycle provides some protection. Values near zero on cycle are expected.
On-cycle context: Near-zero motility on AAS is expected. If you are not planning to conceive, this is not alarming — motility recovers post-PCT, though it typically lags behind concentration.
See Semen Volume marker for full PCT and fertility recovery protocol.
Motility-specific supplements:
- L-Carnitine -- 2-3g/day (most evidence-backed supplement for sperm motility improvement)
- CoQ10 -- 200-400mg/day (mitochondrial energy for sperm flagellar movement)
- Omega-3 (DHA) -- 1-2g/day (sperm membrane fluidity and function)
- Selenium -- 200mcg/day (selenoprotein in sperm midpiece supports motility)
- Vitamin E -- 400 IU/day (protects sperm membranes from oxidative damage)
Lifestyle factors that specifically impact motility:
- Avoid excessive heat to testes (saunas, hot baths, tight clothing)
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol
- Regular moderate exercise (avoid overtraining which increases oxidative stress)
- Motility typically lags behind concentration during recovery -- patience required
References:
- McBride, J. A., & Coward, R. M. (2016). Recovery of spermatogenesis following testosterone replacement therapy or anabolic-androgenic steroid use. Asian Journal of Andrology, 18(3), 373-380. DOI: 10.4103/1008-682X.173938
- Garrido-Maraver, J., Cordero, M. D., Oropesa-Avila, M., et al. (2014). Coenzyme Q10 therapy. Molecular Syndromology, 5(3-4), 187-197. DOI: 10.1159/000360101
- Rayman, M. P. (2012). Selenium and human health. The Lancet, 379(9822), 1256-1268. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(11)61452-9
History Chart
Reading History
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range
VitalMetrics Range