Effects of nitrogenous components of urine on sperm motility: an in vitro study

The effects of the major nitrogenous components of urine (ammonia, creatinine, urea and uric acid) on sperm motility were investigated. Semen samples were obtained by masturbation from a young volunteer with a normal spermiogram and fertility. Sperm motility was measured using a Sperm Quality Analyzer and Makler Chamber. When semen was mixed with a urine sample for which acidity and osmolality were adjusted to pH 7.5 and 340 mOsm/kg, the higher the concentration of the urine, the poorer the sperm motility. When solutions of various concentrations of the nitrogenous compounds which are excreted in urine were mixed with semen, sperm motility decreased in proportion to ammonia levels and was markedly decreased after 30 min. However, in the case of creatinine, urea and uric acid, good motility was maintained for 30 min regardless of their amounts. In conclusion, urine ammonia content is detrimental to sperm motility and may be an important factor in retrograde ejaculation.