Low Sperm Count – Causes & Treatment
March 14, 2024
In current times, many couples are facing challenges when it comes to conceiving. While female infertility issues are widely known about. It is important to consider male infertility as well. One common issue faced by men is low sperm count, which can significantly impact fertility. In this blog, we will explore the causes of low sperm count and discuss treatment options that can help increase your chances of conception.
What is low sperm count?
Low sperm count, also known as oligospermia, refers to having fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre of semen. It is one of the leading causes of male infertility and can make it difficult for couples to conceive naturally.
Causes of low sperm count
Several factors can contribute to low sperm count:
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as varicocele (enlarged veins in the testicles), infections, hormonal imbalances or genetic disorders can affect sperm production.
- Lifestyle choices: Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity and exposure to toxins or radiation can lower sperm count.
- Age: Just like women experience a decline in fertility with age, men also undergo changes that can affect their sperm quality and quantity as they get older.
- Stress: Chronic stress can interfere with hormone production and negatively impact overall reproductive health.
- Medications: Some medications like certain antibiotics or testosterone replacement therapy may temporarily reduce sperm production.
How is low sperm count diagnosed?
If you suspect you have a low sperm count, it is important to consult a fertility specialist who will conduct fertility tests and thorough health evaluations. The diagnostic process may involve:
- Physical examination: The fertility doctor will examine your genitals for any abnormalities or signs of infection.
- Semen analysis: This test measures the quantity, quality and movement (motility) of your sperm. It is the primary tool used to diagnose low sperm count.
- Hormone testing: Blood tests can determine hormonal imbalances that may be affecting sperm production.
- Genetic testing: In some cases, genetic testing may be recommended to identify any chromosomal abnormalities that could contribute to low sperm count.
Treatment for low sperm count
The treatment options for low sperm count depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches:
- Lifestyle changes: Making positive changes to your lifestyle can significantly improve sperm count. Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet and avoiding exposure to toxins can all positively impact fertility.
- Medications: Depending on the cause of low sperm count, your doctor may prescribe medications to address hormonal imbalances or treat infections that could be affecting sperm production.
- Assisted reproductive techniques: In cases where natural conception is not possible, assisted reproductive techniques such as IUI procedure (intrauterine insemination) or IVF procedure (in vitro fertilisation) may be recommended. These procedures involve collecting sperm and introducing them into the female partner's reproductive system or fertilising eggs outside the body before transferring them into the uterus.
- Surgical interventions: If an anatomical issue like varicocele is causing low sperm count, your fertility specialist may recommend surgery to correct the problem.
In conclusion, understanding the complexities of male infertility, particularly low sperm count, is crucial for couples striving to conceive. By recognising the various factors contributing to low sperm count and seeking guidance from fertility specialists, couples can navigate this journey more effectively. From lifestyle adjustments to medical interventions and assisted reproductive techniques, there are viable pathways toward addressing male infertility and increasing the likelihood of conception. With proactive measures and expert support, couples can embark on their parenthood journey with renewed hope and optimism.
At Apollo Fertility we are here to support you every step of the way. Our team of experienced fertility specialists offers personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Schedule a consultation today and let us guide you on your path towards parenthood.
While lifestyle changes alone may not completely reverse low sperm count, they can significantly improve overall fertility health. Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, managing stress, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight are all steps you can take to enhance sperm count.
Improving sperm count is a gradual process. It generally takes about three months for new sperm to fully develop and mature. Therefore, implementing lifestyle changes and following recommended treatment protocols consistently over time can yield positive results.
While assisted reproductive techniques like IUI treatment or IVF procedure can increase the chances of conception, they do not guarantee pregnancy. Success rates depend on various factors, including the quality of sperm, the age of the female partner and overall reproductive health.
