Low Semen Production (Hypospermia)

Low semen volume is a condition in which a less than normal amount of semen is produced in each ejaculation. Because there is an inadequate amount of fluid to bring the sperm in contact with the cervix, this condition can cause fertility problems. Occasional low semen production may be normal. However, if volume is consistently low, and if you and your partner are experiencing fertility problems, there are treatments that may be helpful in correcting the problem.

Normal Semen Volume

Normal semen volume is described as 1 to 5.6 milliliters (mL) per ejaculation. Abnormally low (less than 1 ml) or high (more than 5.6 ml) semen volumes can cause fertility problems. High semen volume (hyperspermia) can also cause fertility problems because the sperm is diluted with excess seminal fluid.

Low Semen Volume Causes

Low semen volume has several causes, including:

• Blockages in a seminal vesicle or ejaculatory duct, sometimes due to a varicocele (varicose vein), or cyst
• Retrograde ejaculation, a condition in which part or all of the semen flows backwards into the bladder
• Certain infections
• Hormonal abnormalities

If you are experiencing abnormal semen production, your doctor may perform a semen analysis to determine the cause. In addition to evaluating the volume, semen analysis also checks for a number of other factors that may point to a cause for the low production, such as the absence of fructose which may suggest a blockage in the ejaculatory duct.

Low Semen Volume Infertility Treatments

Oftentimes, low semen volume, as well as high semen volume, can be treated through surgical procedures to eliminate blockages, or with antibiotics to clear up infections. However, when the low semen volume is due to a problem that cannot be successfully treated, there is a range of infertility treatments, including sperm retrieval and artificial insemination, which can help a couple conceive.

Contact a Fertility Specialist near You

To learn more about male infertility due to low or high semen volume, it is best to speak with a fertility specialist who can perform tests and recommend appropriate fertility treatments. You can use DocShop's online directory to find a fertility specialist near you and schedule an appointment today.