Low Sperm Count Causes, Symptoms, and Their Available Treatment

Men experiencing low sperm count have abnormally low levels of sperm, that is, less than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Furthermore, a low sperm count decreases the likelihood that sperm will fuse your partner’s eggs, resulting in pregnancy. Despite this, many men with low sperm counts can still conceive if they take the proper medicine and make the necessary lifestyle changes. By consulting a sexologist in Jaipur, they can adequately assess your condition and plan a treatment strategy to restore your sperm levels and improve your chances of getting pregnant. 

Low Sperm Count Symptoms

Signs and symptoms may be owing to the underlying cause, such as an inherited chromosomal disorder or hormonal abnormalities, testicular veins twisting, or a medical condition that obstructs sperm movement. Furthermore, sexual performance issues, such as dysfunction or poor sex drive, are further indicators of a low sperm count.

Other sign of low sperm count include:

  • Sexual function problems include difficulty having sex owing to erectile dysfunction or poor libido.
  • A swelling, discomfort, or lump in the area of the testicles.
  • Absence of body or facial hair.
low sperm count symptoms

Low Sperm Count Causes

The process of sperm production is complex. It requires the proper functioning of the brain, pituitary, and testicular glands, which produce hormones that promote spermatogenesis. Once sperm are created in the testicles, they are carried by thin tubes until they join with semen, which is expelled from the penis. Moreover, problems in any of these pathways may influence sperm count. In addition, there may be abnormal sperm morphologies (morphology), motility, or even functioning.

So now, let’s look at all the possible causes of low sperm count. 

1. Teratozoospermia

Teratozoospermia is a condition defined by sperm with an irregular shape. The inability of sperm to adequately swim or access the egg may influence fertility. With teratozoospermia, it could be difficult to conceive naturally. In severe conditions, fertilization and embryo development appear nearly impossible. Furthermore, teratozoospermia males rely on assisted reproduction to have children.

2. Dhat Syndrome

Another reason behind low sperm count is Dhat Syndrome. Men with Dhat syndrome undergo physical and mental discomfort due to reported or anticipated sperm loss. Moreover, numerous people suffer from persistent weariness and erectile dysfunction. So this condition may happen due to excessive masturbation, exposure to sexual content, or sexual dreams. Men with this condition experience nightfall. Dhat syndrome, when not treated, might lead to semen loss and, as a result, complications in pregnancy. 

3. Undescended testicles

Sometimes, one or both testicles fail to descend from the belly into the pouch that normally contains them during fetal growth. Men with this condition are more likely to experience diminished fertility. Further, the treatment depends on the severity of the problem after a thorough evaluation.

4. Hormonal imbalance

The hypothalamus, testes, and pituitary gland produce hormones essential for sperm production. Differences in these hormones and hormones produced by other organs may reduce sperm production, leading to a low sperm count. The therapy will occur after the expert determines which hormones are deficient and prescribes medicine.

5. Lifestyle factors

Certain activities and occupations place men at hazard for reproductive difficulties, and a low sperm count can make it difficult to conceive. Therefore, maintaining a healthier life and fitness while trying to conceive will improve your chances of conceiving. The most common habits contributing to low sperm count are:

  • Alcohol
  • Smoking
  • No physical activity
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Obesity

6. Stress

Extreme or prolonged emotional stress, particularly about fertility, may limit the development of hormones that produce sperm. Consequently, this is another reason for low sperm count. Hence, men must keep stress away and focus on being happy. 

How To Treat Low Sperm Count?

The doctor might recommend the most effective treatment approach based on the condition’s seriousness. In addition, the treatment method is decided by the underlying condition. Some possible therapies include:

1. Treating Dhat Syndrome

So if a man is experiencing Dhat Syndrome, the sexologist might prescribe Cognitive behavioral therapy. Apart from that, they may prescribe antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications. Some studies show positive outcomes by using PDE-5 inhibitors. Yet, the doctor can only prescribe the proper medication after understanding your condition. 

2. Lifestyle changes

In most circumstances, it is possible to improve the sexual health of the male partner; however, adjusting some lifestyle variables may improve the low sperm count. Among these include the consumption of foods that support reproductive health. Further, engaging in exercises improves blood flow which supports a better erection. Having nutritious food keeps your hormone levels balanced, and engaging in Yoga and meditation removes stress. Quit smoking and alcohol. 

3. Medications & Surgeries

Medications and hormone therapies may help normalize hormone levels, improve blood flow, eliminate stress, or treat low testosterone.

At times, medications may not be effective in some cases. So doctors may opt for IVF or other methods to retrieve sperm and fertilize them at the lab. If there is any blockage, surgeries can open up the way to let sperm expel out.

A sexologist has a major role in treating low sperm count since there might be complex issues that may not resolve with medication. After understanding your condition, the expert will offer the right treatment.

Conclusion

These were some of the causes of low sperm count. Consult the sexologist at IASH India if infertility is a problem for you.