Male Infertility and Low Sperm Count: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Infertility is usually linked with women, but male infertility is equally significant. One of the primary reasons for male infertility is a low sperm count, which can impact the couple's chances to conceive. At Vriksh Fertility Centre, we recognize the emotional and physical challenges involved and are dedicated to offering expert care and tailored treatment solutions.
What is Low Sperm Count?
Low sperm count, also known as oligospermia, is a condition in which a man's semen has less sperm than the normal limit.
Between 15 million to more than 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen is considered normal.
The probability of fertilization might be significantly reduced if the count is low, which is less than 15 million sperm per milliliter.
Causes of Low Sperm Count
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones have a key role in sperm production. Lower testosterone levels can be caused by abnormalities in the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus, which can impact sperm production.
Varicocele
Varicocele refers to an enlargement of veins in the scrotum, causing a rise in testicular temperature and lower sperm production.
Infections
Certain illnesses, such as prostatitis, epididymitis, or sexually transmitted infections (STDs), might affect the sperm's health and ability to produce.
Lifestyle Factors
Poor lifestyle choices such as excessive drinking, smoking, taking drugs, and being overweight or obese can all lead to decreased sperm production.
Environmental Factors
Sustained exposure to chemicals, radiation, pesticides, and heavy metal toxins can have a negative impact on sperm production.
Genetic Disorders
Y chromosomal deletions, Klinefelter's syndrome, and other genetic disorders can all result in proper sperm production.
Illnesses and Medications
Production and quality of sperm can also be influenced by diabetes, chronic diseases, chemotherapy and radiation used in cancer treatment, and drugs such as anabolic steroids.
Signs of Low Sperm Count
Low sperm count might not always have distinct symptoms unless a couple is experiencing trouble with conception. Nevertheless, some possible signs include:
Decreased sexual desire
Erectile dysfunction
Pain, swelling, or lumps in the scrotal region
Reduced facial or body hair (signifying hormonal imbalance)
Diagnosis of Low Sperm Count
Analysis of Semen
The sperm count, motility, morphology, and overall quality of a semen sample are evaluated by analysis.
Testing for Hormones
To measure testosterone and other hormones that affect sperm development, blood tests are performed.
Ultrasound of the scrotum
Varicoceles and other structural problems are detected by this imaging tests.
Genetic Testing
In instances where genetic illnesses are suspected, special testing can identify underlying genetic causes.
Treatment Options for Low Sperm Count
Lifestyle Modifications
Keeping a healthy weight
Alcohol and smoking reduction
Stress management effectively
Regular exercise
A well-balanced diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, and folic acid
Drug and Hormonal Therapy
Some medications and hormonal therapies may improve sperm production in the event of hormonal imbalances.
Surgical Interventions
Varicocelectomy: Surgical correction of varicoceles to enhance sperm production.
Sperm retrieval methods: In severe oligospermia or azoospermia, sperm may be directly obtained from the testicles and applied to assisted reproduction methods.
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm are inserted directly into the uterus to improve fertilization opportunity.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs and sperm are mixed together in a lab, and the resulting fertilized embryo is inserted into the uterus.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): An individual sperm is injected into an egg, raising fertilization opportunities for men who have extremely low sperm counts.
Preventing Low Sperm Count
Stay away from harmful chemicals and toxins.
Keep your testicles cool by wearing loose-fitting pants and avoiding the prolonged heat of hot tubs, saunas, and laptop use on your lap.
Have safe sex to avoid infection that can impact fertility.
Routine checkups to watch for reproductive health.
Conclusion
Male infertility caused by low sperm count can be upsetting, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, most men are able to enhance their fertility. At Vriksh Fertility Centre, we provide customized treatments and cutting-edge fertility solutions to enable couples to fulfill their dream of parenthood. If you or your partner are experiencing fertility issues, visit our experts today for a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan.
