Effects of long-term treatment with human pure FSH on seminal parameters and sperm cells ultrastructure in idiopathic oligo-asthenozoospermia

Ten subfertile men affected by idiopathic oligoteratoasthenozoospermia and exhibiting normal serum hormone levels received a long-term treatment with human pure follicle-stimulating hormone (hp-FSH) (150 IU, intramuscularly, three times per week for 6 months). Semen parameters and ultrastructural features of spermatozoa were evaluated before and after therapy. The results showed an increase in sperm cell concentration and, more interestingly, motility. Electron microscopic examination revealed an improved fine architectural pattern, mainly involving acrosome, head and chromatin and middle-piece, in accordance with the positive changes of functional data. No significant changes of hp-FSH treatment on serum hormone levels were observed, since the latter were found to be substantially unchanged after 6 months of therapy. The present data suggest: (i) the benefit of hp-FSH administration in idiopathic oligoteratoasthenozoospermia, when hormone parameters support a substantial integrity of spermatogenetic micro-environment and (ii) an optimal effect after long-term (6 months) therapy.