Understanding Male Infertility: Low Sperm Count — Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment


Male Infertility is a growing concern that affects millions of couples worldwide who are trying to conceive. Among the various factors contributing to it, Low Sperm Count is one of the most common yet least discussed causes. Low sperm count, also known as oligospermia, refers to when the semen a man ejaculates contains fewer sperm than normal.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a healthy sperm concentration is 15 million or more sperm per milliliter of semen. Anything lower than that may reduce the likelihood of fertilizing an egg, thereby making natural conception more difficult.

While having a low sperm count doesn’t necessarily mean pregnancy is impossible, it does lower the chances of success. The good news is that with accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, many men can overcome this issue and achieve biological parenthood.

This blog explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments available for low sperm count to help men understand the condition and make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

How Sperm Count Is Measured

A semen analysis is the primary test to evaluate sperm count. This test examines:

  • Sperm count (number per milliliter)

  • Sperm motility (movement ability)

  • Sperm morphology (shape and structure)

  • Semen volume

Doctors often recommend two semen analyses spaced a few weeks apart for accuracy since sperm counts naturally fluctuate due to stress, illness, or lifestyle factors.

Read More: Why is a sperm analysis test required?

Common Causes of Low Sperm Count

There are multiple reasons why men might experience Male Infertility due to low sperm count. Some of the most common include:

  • Hormonal imbalances – Low testosterone or other hormonal disorders

  • Varicocele – Enlarged veins in the scrotum that raise testicular temperature

  • Genetic issues – Chromosomal abnormalities like Klinefelter syndrome

  • Infections – STIs or reproductive organ infections that damage sperm production

  • Lifestyle habits – Smoking, alcohol, drugs, obesity, or chronic stress

  • Environmental factors – Heat exposure, radiation, or toxic chemicals

Read More:  Reasons for low sperm count

Symptoms and Signs of Low Sperm Count

Most men with low sperm count don’t notice any visible symptoms. The issue is usually discovered when a couple struggles to conceive. However, possible signs include:

  • Difficulty conceiving despite regular unprotected sex

  • Low sex drive (libido)

  • Erectile dysfunction

  • Reduced facial or body hair

Risk Factors for Male Infertility

Several factors can increase the risk of low sperm count, including:

  • Older age (especially over 40)

  • Being overweight or obese

  • Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption

  • Drug or anabolic steroid use

  • High stress levels

Diagnosis and Testing for Low Sperm Count

If a couple has been trying to conceive for a year without success, it’s advisable for the male partner to undergo fertility testing. Diagnosis involves:

  • Semen analysis – To measure sperm count, motility, and morphology

  • Hormone testing – To check testosterone, FSH, and LH levels

  • Genetic testing – To detect inherited disorders affecting sperm production

  • Scrotal ultrasound – To identify structural problems like varicocele

  • Urine or STI testing – To rule out infections affecting fertility

Read More: Sperm Count Test (Semen Analysis) for Infertility

Treatment Options for Low Sperm Count

Treatment depends on the root cause. Some men benefit from lifestyle changes, while others may need medical or surgical treatments.

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • Quit smoking, alcohol, and drugs

  • Eat antioxidant-rich foods (leafy greens, nuts, fruits)

  • Exercise moderately and reduce stress

  • Get sufficient sleep

Medications

  • Hormone therapy to correct imbalances

  • Antibiotics to treat infections

  • Medicines to enhance sperm production or ejaculation

Surgical Options

  • Varicocelectomy to treat varicocele

  • Surgery to remove blockages in sperm ducts

Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

  • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

  • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

Although not all causes are preventable, healthy daily habits can support sperm health:

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables

  • Avoid excessive caffeine, processed foods, and sugary drinks

  • Exercise regularly but avoid overheating the testicles

  • Practice stress management techniques

  • Avoid prolonged use of hot tubs or saunas

  • Minimize exposure to toxins and pollutants

Read More: 10 Foods to Increase Sperm Count and 5 Foods to Avoid

Emotional Impact and Coping Strategies

Dealing with fertility challenges can be emotionally draining for men. They often feel isolated or pressured to appear strong, which can worsen stress. Coping strategies include:

  • Open communication with your partner

  • Seeking counseling or therapy

  • Joining support group

When to Seek Medical Help

If a couple has been trying for more than 12 months without success (or 6 months if the female partner is over 35), consulting a fertility expert is essential.

Many couples look for the best IVF hospital in Ahmedabad to access advanced facilities, accurate diagnostic tools, and a supportive environment for their fertility journey.

Consulting a Fertility Expert

When semen analysis reports show abnormalities, men may consider visiting an IVF specialist in Ahmedabad who can assess their condition thoroughly and create a personalized treatment plan suited to their reproductive goals.

Advanced Fertility Treatments

If conservative treatments are not successful, couples might explore IVF treatment in Ahmedabad, which uses cutting-edge reproductive techniques to help overcome male factor infertility and increase the chances of conception.

Why Choose a Trusted Fertility Centre

Choosing the right fertility center is crucial not only for medical expertise but also for emotional support during a challenging journey.

Banker IVF stands out for offering comprehensive care, combining advanced reproductive technologies with compassionate patient support to guide couples every step of the way.

Conclusion: Moving Forward With Hope

Low sperm count can be a challenging obstacle, but it is not the end of the road. With accurate diagnosis, the right treatments, and lifestyle improvements, many men with low sperm count go on to become fathers.

The most important step is to seek timely help, stay informed, and remain hopeful. Fertility challenges can be overcome with the right medical guidance and emotional support, turning the dream of parenthood into reality.

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