What is Low Sperm Count?
Low sperm count, medically known as oligospermia, occurs when a man has fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. This condition can make it more difficult to achieve pregnancy naturally.
Common Causes
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Lifestyle factors:
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Excessive heat exposure
- Certain medications
- Obesity
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Medical conditions:
- Varicocele (enlarged testicular veins)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic factors
- Infections
Signs and Symptoms
- No obvious symptoms
- Difficulty conceiving is often the only sign
- Possible signs of underlying conditions:
- Sexual function problems
- Pain or swelling in testicles
- Decreased facial/body hair
Diagnosis
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Semen analysis
- Measures sperm count
- Evaluates sperm motility and morphology
-
Physical examination
-
Blood tests
-
Genetic testing (when indicated)
Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes
- Quit smoking
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Maintain healthy weight
- Avoid excessive heat
Medical Treatments
- Surgery for varicocele
- Hormone therapy
- Medication adjustments
- Treatment of underlying infections
Assisted Reproductive Technologies
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
Prevention
- Maintain healthy lifestyle
- Protect against STIs
- Avoid harmful environmental exposures
- Regular medical check-ups
When to See a Doctor
- Unable to conceive after 1 year of trying
- History of testicle problems
- Previous cancer treatment
- Sexual function difficulties
Outlook
Many cases of low sperm count are treatable. Success rates depend on the underlying cause and chosen treatment method. Early intervention typically improves outcomes.