Patient Education Topics
Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)
A common cause of male factor infertility is low sperm count (also known as oligospermia). This condition can result from a variety of factors.
What is Considered Normal Sperm Count?
Twenty million or more sperm
per milliliter of semen is considered a normal sperm count, with at least 60
percent of those sperm having normal shape and motility.
Although men with sperm
counts lower than 20 million have fathered children, and some men with
relatively high sperm counts have not, these cases are considered exceptions to
the rule. A semen
analysis can determine sperm count and also check for abnormalities with
their movement and shape.
Low Sperm Count Causes
Low sperm count can be caused by innumerable, and sometimes unexplainable, factors; there are generally no predictable signs of low sperm count other than infertility. The causes of low sperm count include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Overheating of the testicles
- Stress (emotional, psychological, and physical)
- Drug use
- Smoking
- Nutritional deficiencies and obesity
- Environmental toxins
Contrary to popular belief, wearing tight pants or briefs is no longer considered a viable cause of oligospermia. However, it is still advisable to avoid restrictive, tight clothing if you and your partner are trying to conceive.
Low Sperm Count Fertility Treatment
In many cases, low sperm
count and subsequent male infertility is only temporary- solutions like losing
weight, quitting smoking, or avoiding hot baths and saunas can often lead to
improvements in sperm count.
However, if these solutions
do not increase sperm count, there are a range of infertility treatments
available for this condition. Some treatment options include:
Contact a Fertility Doctor
If you want to learn more about the male infertility and low sperm count, or arrange for a male fertility test, it is always best to speak directly with a fertility specialist. Find a fertility clinic in your area through DocShop's online directory.
Still Have a Question? Ask a Specialist in Your Area
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