Does omega-3 fatty acids intake impact semen quality?

This study investigated if omega-3 fatty acids (O3-FAs) supplementation affects semen quality. 

They found that a healthy intake of O3-FAs may improve semen quality in infertile men. 

Infertility affects approximately 15% of couples. In many cases the cause of infertility is unclear. In men, the cause of poor semen quality can be hard to determine. Many factors are thought to influence semen quality. Lifestyle factors including diet may affect semen quality.

Many nutrients are under investigation for male fertility. Omega-3 fatty acids (O3-FAs) are one nutrient that may improve semen quality. O3-FAs are important for preventing heart disease. O3-FAs are present in oily fish. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are two O3-FAs. One study suggested that O3-FAs improve sperm motility. Additional studies have been conducted on O3-FAs recently. It is unclear if increasing the intake of O3-FAs improves semen quality. 

This study included 16 other studies on O3-FAs in infertile men. These reports included observational studies (OSs) and controlled trials (CTs). In OSs patients were asked to report their dietary intake of O3-FAs. In CTs patients were randomly assigned to supplementation with O3-FAs. The authors of this study analyzed sperm quality across these studies. Sperm quality parameters included motility, concentration, sperm count, and sperm morphology (shape).

Supplementation with O3-FAs improved sperm quality. CTs showed improvements in sperm motility, concentration, count and morphology in infertile men. A healthy intake of O3-FAs was associated with improved sperm quality in OSs count. Sperm count, morphology, motility, and sperm volume were better in men with healthy O3-FA intake. In both types of studies, O3-FAs were associated with less DNA breakages in sperm cells. 

The authors concluded that a healthy intake of O3-FAs may improve sperm quality in infertile men.

Only 4 controlled trials were included in this review. It is still unclear if O3-FA supplementation can improve fertility outcomes. More controlled studies are needed.  

If you have any concerns regarding infertility please consult with your physician.