Low Sperm Count: Signs and Causes

• August 1, 2024
• Dr Luke Wee

Last updated on July 15, 2024

Low sperm count is a critical factor in male fertility, impacting many couples’ ability to conceive. Recognising low sperm count signs, understanding the underlying causes and being aware of the implications are crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. By exploring these aspects, we can shed light on this common issue and offer guidance for improving reproductive health and fertility outcomes.

What is a Low Sperm Count?

A low sperm count, medically referred to as oligospermia, is when the semen sample contains fewer sperm than the normal sperm count range. A normal sperm count typically ranges from 15 million to over 200 million sperm per millilitre of semen. Low sperm counts can significantly affect male fertility, making it challenging to conceive without medical intervention.

Low Sperm Count Signs and Symptoms

The primary sign of a low sperm count is difficulty in conceiving a child. Other low sperm count symptoms include:

• Problems with sexual function, such as erectile dysfunction
• Pain, swelling, or a lump in the testicle area
• Decreased facial or body hair, indicating potential hormonal imbalances

Common Causes of Low Sperm Count

Medical Cause

• Varicocele: Swelling of the veins that drain the testicle can affect sperm production.
• Infections: Certain infections can interfere with sperm health or sperm production.
• Ejaculation Issues: Problems like retrograde ejaculation can lower sperm count.
• Tumours: Both non-malignant and cancerous tumours can affect male fertility.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Issues with the pituitary gland or other hormone-producing organs can reduce sperm production.
• Genetic Defects: Conditions such as Klinefelter’s syndrome can affect sperm count.
• Undescended Testicles: This condition can impair the development of the reproductive organs.

Environmental Causes

• Industrial Chemicals: Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals can reduce male fertility.
• Heavy Metal Exposure: Contact with heavy metals like lead can affect sperm production.
• Radiation or X-rays: High levels of radiation can permanently reduce sperm count.

Lifestyle Causes

• Drug Use: Anabolic steroids and recreational drugs can lower sperm count.
• Alcohol Use: Excessive alcohol consumption can affect male fertility.
• Tobacco Smoking: Smoking is known to reduce sperm health.
• Emotional Stress: High stress levels can interfere with sexual function and sperm production.
• Weight: Obesity can cause hormonal imbalances affecting sperm count.

How is Low Sperm Count Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a low sperm count involves several steps:

• Semen Analysis: A semen sample is analysed to count the number of sperm and assess their health.
• Physical Examination: This can identify any physical issues affecting male fertility.
• Hormone Testing: Blood tests can reveal hormonal imbalances.
• Genetic Tests: These can identify genetic causes of low sperm count.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasounds can detect abnormalities in the reproductive organs.

Treatment and Management of Low Sperm Count

Medical Treatments

• Hormonal treatments or medications to address hormonal imbalances
• Antibiotics for infections affecting sperm health

Surgical Treatments

• Surgery for varicocele or other obstructions

Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies

• Reducing alcohol and tobacco use
• Managing stress
• Maintaining a healthy weight

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

• In vitro fertilisation (IVF) and other ART methods can help achieve pregnancy despite a low sperm count.

Vasectomy and Its Impact on Sperm Count

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure for permanent male contraception, involving the cutting and sealing of the tubes that carry sperm. This prevents sperm from mixing with semen, thus affecting sperm count by ensuring no sperm are present in the ejaculate. Importantly, a vasectomy does not impact sperm production or male hormones like testosterone.

Conclusion

Understanding low sperm count is crucial for addressing male factor infertility. Recognising the symptoms and causes of low sperm counts can lead to timely and effective treatments. When considering family planning options, vasectomy remains a reliable choice that does not adversely affect sperm production or male hormones.

How to book a vasectomy appointment

• Fill out our online booking form
• Call us: 0800 884 408
• Email us: info@thecooperclinic.co.nz

Frequently Asked Questions

How does low sperm count relate to male infertility?

Low sperm count is a significant factor in male infertility. Fewer sperm in the semen reduces the likelihood of fertilising an egg, making it more challenging for couples to conceive.

Can testosterone replacement therapy affect sperm production?

Yes, testosterone replacement therapy can impact sperm production. While it helps address symptoms of low testosterone, it can also suppress the body’s natural sperm production, potentially affecting male fertility.

What role does hormonal imbalance play in low sperm count?

Hormonal imbalance can significantly contribute to low sperm count. Issues with the pituitary gland or other hormone-producing organs can disrupt the regulation of sperm production, leading to reduced male fertility.

Can lifestyle changes help improve male infertility?

Yes, adopting a healthier lifestyle can improve male infertility. Reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, managing stress and maintaining a healthy weight can all positively impact sperm production and overall fertility.

Are there medical treatments available for low sperm count?

Yes, medical treatments such as hormone therapy, antibiotics for infections and surgical procedures for varicocele can help address low sperm count and improve male fertility.