Low sperm count, or oligospermia, is a common cause of male infertility. It refers to a condition in which the number of sperm in a man's ejaculate is lower than the normal range. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a normal sperm count as having at least 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
Here are some key points to understand:
**1. Diagnosis: A diagnosis of a sperm count that is low is typically based on a semen analysis, which involves examining a sample of semen under a microscope. The analysis assesses various parameters, including sperm count, motility, and morphology.
**2. Causes:
- Varicocele: A varicocele is a swelling of the veins that drain the testicle. It is common and treatable, and it can interfere with sperm numbers.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Disruptions in hormonal regulation, such as low levels of testosterone or problems with the pituitary gland, can impact sperm production.
- Infections: Infections, particularly those affecting the reproductive organs, can interfere with sperm production.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, radiation, or certain chemicals can contribute to low sperm numbers.
- Lifestyle Factors: Poor lifestyle choices, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity, and high levels of stress, can negatively impact fertility.
**3. Treatment:
- Treatment options depend on the underlying cause the sperm count. In some cases, addressing lifestyle factors may improve sperm count.
- Surgical interventions, such as repairing a varicocele or addressing blockages in the reproductive tract, may be considered.
- Hormonal therapies can be used to correct imbalances and stimulate sperm production.
- In some cases, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be recommended.
**4. Lifestyle Changes:
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle can positively impact sperm production. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress.
**5. Prognosis:
- The prognosis for low sperm count varies depending on the cause and how well it can be addressed. In some cases, treatment can lead to improvements in sperm numbers and fertility.
If you are concerned about your sperm count or fertility issues, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a semen analysis and other relevant tests, to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate interventions.
Book your consultation with London Andrology by contacting us here.
