Low sperm count
When a man has fewer sperm in his semen than normal,it is termed as low sperm count .Low sperm count is called oligospermia .This can delay your partner from getting pregnant. But don’t worry, natural conception is still possible, and there are treatments that can help. Men of all ages can get affected by this problem .
What are the causes of low sperm count
There are various factors that contribute to oligospermia(Low sperm count) . let’s look into this blog:
Diseases and conditions:
- Genetic Conditions: Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome and cystic fibrosis can reduce sperm production.
- Infections: Sexually transmitted infections, urinary tract infections, and illnesses like mumps can decrease your sperm count.
- Blockages: Blockages in the reproductive system can stop sperm from being released.
Excessive alcohol and drug usage: Intake of excessive drugs and alcohol usage can lead to low sperm count . These can affect your hormonal issues , where it causes low testosterone or other hormone imbalances,(where the sex glands don’t make enough hormones), it makes it harder to produce a healthy count.
Environmental and workplace risks: Being around harmful chemicals or radiation at work or in the environment can reduce your sperm count. These hazards can damage sperm production and quality. It’s important to be cautious and try to reduce your exposure to keep your sperm healthy.
Masturbation: It doesn’t majorly contribute to low sperm count ,in fact it is normal. However, if done excessively, it can affect or reduce your sperm count.
Depression: Depression can lower your sperm count because it can mess with your hormones and reduce your interest in sex. Stress can lead to low sperm production, so taking care of your mental health is key. Meditation and exercise can keep your stress levels down.
Age Factor: As you are getting older, sperm count will start to get reduced , and the quality of your sperm could too decline. As you get older , sperm production tends to reduce.so men who are older might face low sperm production and even quality of a sperm can be affected/
Symptoms of low sperm count
Testicular lump:
When an unusual Pain, swelling or a small hard lump on testicle occurs , it might indicate a testicular lump. Due to this , your sperm count might get affected and there will be a change in the sperm production. If you notice any of these symptoms consult a doctor for proper treatment.
Low sex drive :
Low sex drive can lead to lower sperm count because it can cause less frequent ejaculation, leading to reduction of sperm production. It’s important to consult a doctor if you’re experiencing a low sex drive.
Infertility:
If you’re struggling to get pregnant, a low sperm count might be the reason. This means you might have too few sperm or the sperm might not be healthy enough to fertilize an egg. A doctor can help find out what’s causing the problem and suggest treatments like IUI or IVF to increase your chances of having a baby.
Erectile dysfunction:
Trouble getting or maintaining an erection can affect your ability to ejaculate properly, which might lead to a lower sperm count. If you are facing troubles while ejaculating , it means that it can cause certain health issues regarding erection ,which could impact the sperm production.
Signs of healthy sperm
- Sperm Count range: There should be more than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen for a healthy sperm.
- Good motility: Healthy sperm swim efficiently in a straight line, which helps them reach and fertilize the egg.
- Proper Shape: Healthy sperm have an oval head and a long, straight tail, making it easier for them to swim and reach the egg.
How to Increase Sperm Count Naturally
Quality and quantity of a semen is equally important . To naturally increase your sperm count ,you should make some healthy changes in your daily routine life. Here’s how you can improve your sperm count and overall fertility:
Manage Stress: unbearable stress will harm your sperm by affecting hormones and lowering sperm count. When you follow a well disciplined and healthy lifestyle like regular exercise , making self care as your priority , then your stress level can be managed to an extent.
Healthy Diet: when we lead a healthy lifestyle and include a balanced diet in our food ,it can help to boost your sperm count. Intake of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains will provide vital results. Please restrict processed foods and cut down sugar. A nutritious diet will lead you to achieve healthy sperm.
Limit Alcohol and Avoid Drugs: At our present journey , numerous unwanted activities are a root cause of our failure . Likewise ,these alcohol and drugs spoil the entire health when it exceeds the limit .So it’s safe to reduce the amount of alcohol and by staying away from drugs your sperm count can be improved . Both alcohol and drugs negatively impact your sperm production and quality. Reducing these substances helps to keep your sperm healthy and boosts your chances of higher sperm count.
Weight loss: Dropping extra weight can help boost your sperm count. Carrying too much weight can affect your hormones and lower sperm quality. Overall physical health, for instance regular exercise , and intake of a proper balanced food , can improve your sperm health and increase your chances of getting pregnant. Even yoga can increase sperm count.
Food to increase sperm count :
Vitamin D Foods: Eating Vitamin D foods such as fatty fish, nutritious milk, and egg yolks, can help improve your sperm health. These foods help balance hormones and support healthy sperm production, which can increase your chances of conceiving.
Green Leafy Vegetables and Beans: Adding green vegetables like spinach and beans to your diet can also boost fertility. Spinach provides folate, which is important for healthy sperm, while beans have antioxidants that protect sperm from damage.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Eating more foods with antioxidants, like berries, nuts, and leafy greens, can support sperm health. Antioxidants help protect sperm from damage and improve their quality, which can help you get pregnant.
Semen analysis test and report :
A semen analysis test checks your sperm’s health by looking at things like sperm count, how well they move, their shape, and the overall quality of your semen. You can get this test done at our Kanaa fertility clinic, and we’ll give you the results. After reviewing the results, we’ll talk about any issues and suggest treatments to help improve your sperm and increase your chances of having a baby. We’re here to provide all the support and options you need.
Please call on +91 9962777777 to schedule a consultation
Dr B.Priya Kalyani
MBBS., DGO, DNB (OG)
Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist