OverviewLow sperm count means that the fluid (semen) you ejaculate during an orgasm contains fewer sperm than normal. Show
A low sperm count is also called oligospermia (ol-ih-go-SPUR-me-uh). A complete absence of sperm is called azoospermia. Your sperm count is considered lower than normal if you have fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Having a low sperm count decreases the odds that one of your sperm will fertilize your partner's egg, resulting in pregnancy. Nonetheless, many men who have a low sperm count are still able to father a child. SymptomsThe main sign of low sperm count is the inability to conceive a child. There might be no other obvious signs or symptoms. In some men, an underlying problem such as an inherited chromosomal abnormality, a hormonal imbalance, dilated testicular veins or a condition that blocks the passage of sperm may cause signs and symptoms. Low sperm count symptoms might include:
When to see a doctorSee a doctor if you have been unable to conceive a child after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse or sooner if you have any of the following:
CausesThe production of sperm is a complex process and requires normal functioning of the testicles (testes) as well as the hypothalamus and pituitary glands — organs in your brain that produce hormones that trigger sperm production. Once sperm are produced in the testicles, delicate tubes transport them until they mix with semen and are ejaculated out of the penis. Problems with any of these systems can affect sperm production. Also, there can be problems of abnormal sperm shape (morphology), movement (motility) or function. However, often the cause of low sperm count isn't identified. Medical causesLow sperm count can be caused by a number of health issues and medical treatments. Some of these include:
Environmental causesSperm production or function can be affected by overexposure to certain environmental elements, including:
Health, lifestyle and other causesOther causes of low sperm count include:
Risk factorsA number of risk factors are linked to low sperm count and other problems that can cause low sperm count. They include:
ComplicationsInfertility caused by low sperm count can be stressful for both you and your partner. Complications can include:
PreventionTo protect your fertility, avoid known factors that can affect sperm count and quality. For example:
DiagnosisWhen you see a doctor because you're having trouble getting your partner pregnant, he or she will try to determine the underlying cause. Even if your doctor thinks low sperm count is the problem, it is recommended that your partner be evaluated to rule out potential contributing factors and determine if assisted reproductive techniques may be required. General physical examination and medical historyThis includes examination of your genitals and asking questions about any inherited conditions, chronic health problems, illnesses, injuries or surgeries that could affect fertility. Your doctor might also ask about your sexual habits and your sexual development. Semen analysisA low sperm count is diagnosed as part of a semen analysis test. Sperm count is generally determined by examining semen under a microscope to see how many sperm appear within squares on a grid pattern. In some cases, a computer might be used to measure sperm count. Semen samples can be obtained in a couple of different ways. You can provide a sample by masturbating and ejaculating into a special container at the doctor's office. Because of religious or cultural beliefs, some men prefer an alternative method of semen collection. In such cases, semen can be collected by using a special condom during intercourse. New sperm are produced continually in the testicles and take about 42 to 76 days to mature. So, a current semen analysis reflects your environment over the past three months. Any positive changes you've made won't show up for several months. One of the most common causes of low sperm count is incomplete or improper collection of a sperm sample. Sperm counts also often fluctuate. Because of these factors, most doctors will check two or more semen samples over time to ensure consistency between samples. To ensure accuracy in a collection, your doctor will:
Semen analysis resultsNormal sperm densities range from 15 million to greater than 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen. You are considered to have a low sperm count if you have fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter or less than 39 million sperm total per ejaculate. Your chance of getting your partner pregnant decreases with decreasing sperm counts. Some men have no sperm in their semen at all. This is known as azoospermia (ay-zoh-uh-SPUR-me-uh). There are many factors involved in reproduction, and the number of sperm in your semen is only one. Some men with low sperm counts successfully father children. Likewise, some men with normal sperm counts are unable to father children. Even if you have enough sperm, other factors are important to achieve a pregnancy, including normal sperm movement (motility). Other testsDepending on initial findings, your doctor might recommend additional tests to look for the cause of your low sperm count and other possible causes of male infertility. These can include:
TreatmentTreatments for low sperm count include:
When treatment doesn't workIn rare cases, male fertility problems can't be treated, and it's impossible for a man to father a child. If this is the case, you and your partner can consider either using sperm from a donor or adopting a child. Lifestyle and home remediesThere are steps you can take at home to increase your chances of getting your partner pregnant, including:
Alternative medicineSupplements with studies showing potential benefits on improving sperm count or quality include:
Talk with your doctor before taking dietary supplements to review the risks and benefits of this therapy, as some supplements taken in high doses (megadoses) or for extended periods of time might be harmful. Preparing for an appointmentYou should start with your family doctor or a different provider. However, he or she might refer you to an infertility specialist. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor. What you can do
Some basic questions to ask your doctor include:
Don't hesitate to ask additional questions during your appointment. What to expect from your doctorSome questions your doctor may ask you include:
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From Mayo Clinic Updated: 10/29/2020 What is the main cause of low sperm count?One of the most common causes of low sperm count is incomplete or improper collection of a sperm sample. Sperm counts also often fluctuate. Because of these factors, most doctors will check two or more semen samples over time to ensure consistency between samples.
Can I get pregnant if he has low sperm count?Low sperm count means your sperm are less likely to fertilize your partner's egg, resulting in pregnancy. However, this does not mean you cannot father a child -- there are many possible treatments for men considering parenthood.
How can I increase my sperm count naturally?Simple steps to increase the chances of producing healthy sperm include:. Maintain a healthy weight. Some research suggests that increasing body mass index (BMI) is linked with decreasing sperm count and sperm movement.. Eat a healthy diet. ... . Prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). ... . Manage stress. ... . Get moving.. |