Oxygen free radicals are important for the normal function of spermatozoa as they contribute to the acrosome reaction, spermatozoa maturation and fertilizing ability, however high concentration of ROS leads to oxidative stress and spermatozoa are particularly sensitive to this as they lack a fully organized antioxidant system. High ROS levels have been linked to increased DNA fragmentation, reduced motility
of sperm, reduced fertilizing ability, increase in morphologically abnormal sperm, as well as reduced sperm-egg interaction.
Therefore, the measurement of the value of oxidative stress becomes necessary, in order for the examinee to receive, if necessary, the appropriate antioxidant
treatment