5 Low Sperm Count Treatment Options for Men

You may not typically think about sperm quality unless you're trying to conceive and start a family. However, if you’re dealing with male infertility, a low sperm count could be one of the contributing factors. Rest assured that effective treatments are available. Let’s explore some of the most scientifically-backed options to enhance sperm health and support your journey towards conception.

Dr. Ami Shah, Consultant, ART Fertility Clinics, Ahmedabad

Nov 22, 2024

Understanding Low Sperm Count

Low sperm count, or oligospermia, is one of the prime causes of male infertility. The World Health Organization claims that it is called low when the sperm count declines to less than 15 million per millilitre (mL) of semen, although the average sperm count is around 75 million/mL. Lifestyle choices, medical conditions, and environmental exposures may affect sperm production.

Treatment Options for Male Infertility

The following treatment options are available:

1. Surgery

Certain health disorders inhibit the normal flow of sperm, which then leads to fertility issues. Varicocele is one such condition, an enlargement of veins draining out from the scrotum. It is a common cause of male infertility and can often be corrected through surgery, improving sperm quality by improving blood flow. Some surgical options include:

Varicocele repair: Correcting a varicocele improves sperm quality by enhancing blood flow and lowering scrotal temperature.
Reversing a vasectomy: Men who have had a vasectomy but now want to have children can consider this treatment option.
Sperm retrieval: If sperm is absent in the semen, the sperm can be removed surgically from the testicles or epididymis.

Surgery is most effective when anatomical reasons cause infertility; however, it needs to be discussed with a specialist so that you can be provided with proper knowledge before making a decision.

2. Treatment for Infections

Some infections in the male reproductive system, which are mostly due to bacteria or sexually transmitted diseases, may lead to low sperm count. These include epididymitis and orchitis. While antibiotics can treat the infection, fertility may not be immediately restored, as these infections can sometimes cause scarring and blockages that permanently affect sperm health.

3. Medications and Hormone Therapy

Hormonal imbalances are another main cause of low sperm count. The body needs suitable levels of both testosterone and the hormones luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to ensure the production of healthy sperm. Hormone therapy or drugs can correct imbalances where these are either too high or too low, depending on the cause.

This treatment is specifically designed for men who are diagnosed with conditions such as hypogonadism, which refers to a condition that makes the body incapable of producing sufficient amounts of testosterone. Hormonal treatments may show improvement in sperm count, but it usually takes months because sperm production takes time.

4. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

For couples who struggle to conceive naturally, Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) offers various options to aid fertilisation. ART includes procedures like:

Intrauterine insemination (IUI): In this procedure, sperm are placed into the uterus at the time of ovulation. The procedures enhance the chances of successful fertilisation.
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is the most effective method. In this method, Eggs and sperm are combined in a lab, and the embryo is then transferred into the uterus.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): In this method, one healthy sperm is directly injected into an egg. This increases the chances of fertilisation in case of low sperm count.

5. Lifestyle Changes

Simple lifestyle adjustments can go a long way toward improving overall sperm count and fertility outcomes.

Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can lead to hormonal imbalance, reducing sperm count.
Avoid excessive heat: Frequent use of saunas, hot tubs, and hours sitting on the lap using your laptop increases scrotal sac temperature, which damages the production of sperm.
Limit substance intake: Alcohol, tobacco smoke, and illicit drugs, including marijuana and steroids, affect sperm health.
Regular exercise and stress management: Exercise has been related to a fit body, and low levels of stress support healthy hormonal balance, which might improve the quality of sperm.

Conclusion

Low sperm count may cause some difficulties in conception, yet this does not guarantee you cannot conceive. There are surgical interventions and lifestyle changes that can improve sperm quality, which might increase your chances of conceiving. Remember, patience is key, as some treatments may take time to show results.