Signs of Low Sperm Count
If you’re concerned about your fertility, it’s important to understand the signs of low sperm count. Low sperm count can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, and lifestyle factors. This can make it hard to know if you’re suffering from a low sperm count. Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you get on the right track to improve your fertility. In this article, we will discuss the signs of low sperm count, so you can know if it’s time to talk to your doctor.
The signs of low sperm count include:
- Decreased libido
- Difficulty maintaining an erection
- Pain, swelling, or lump in the testicles
- Decreased ejaculate volume
- Abnormal semen color or consistency
Low semen volume
Low semen volume can be a symptom of a low sperm count. Semen is the fluid produced during ejaculation and it carries sperm to the egg. It is typically whitish-gray in color and has a jelly-like texture. A normal sperm count will produce at least 1.5 ml of semen per ejaculation, with additional semen present for multiple ejaculations within a few hours.
A low semen volume can have many causes, including an underlying genetic or structural issue such as a blockage or infection in the reproductive tract that prevents sperm from being released normally. Lower than normal hormone levels such as testosterone can also decrease semen volume by affecting normal production of seminal fluids that carry the sperm along. In addition, varicocele, an enlargement of veins around the testicles, can cause a decrease in semen production and reduce overall fertility levels.
If you have concerns about a low semen volume, it is important to seek medical advice in order to evaluate potential infertility causes and determine appropriate treatment options. Treatment options may include:
- Lifestyle changes such as improved diet and exercise;
- Medications to boost testosterone levels;
- Surgery to repair varicoceles or blocked reproductive tracts;
- Hormone replacement therapy;
- Artificial insemination; or
- Assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF (in vitro fertilization).
Abnormal semen color
Abnormal semen color is one of the signs of a low sperm count. Healthy semen typically has a whitish-gray hue and a jelly-like consistency. Abnormal color can range from pink or red to yellow or brown and can be an indicator of overall semen quality. In some cases, the cause of abnormal semen color may be harmless, such as pigments from certain fruits or other dietary sources; however, it can also be caused by underlying medical conditions.
The presence of blood in the semen is usually due to inflammation in the urogenital tract or vas deferens, both of which are associated with decreased fertility rates. Blood tinged sperm may indicate infection and/or damage to reproductive anatomy. The identifying factor is typically dilution; if the red streaks become less intense after vigorous mixing that’s typically an indication that there is indeed blood in the semen.
The presence of white flakes in the ejaculate could also indicate low sperm count or infection. White flakes differ from normal pus formation because pus is thick and fluid whereas white flakes are sharp and crystalline in appearance. Furthermore their presence demonstrates poor liquefaction times which can influence fertilization potential. If you notice any abnormal colors, visit your doctor as they will likely need to take a sample for analysis to determine its exact cause.
Abnormal semen texture
Abnormal semen texture can be an indication of low sperm count due to certain types of illness or general health issues. Semen should typically appear to be a thick, white-gray fluid with a smooth texture and consistency. If it appears thin, watery and lacks color or foaminess this could indicate a problem with fertility. It is possible for the semen to vary in consistency from one ejaculation to another so if you feel your semen has become abnormal you should see a doctor for testing immediately.
Semen can also be visually examined by a doctor to check for morphological abnormalities such as clumping, presence of pus or other discoloration which could be indications of a low sperm count. The sperm count itself will need to be tested in order to properly diagnose the issue and rule out any underlying illnesses that may be causing the issue such as:
- diabetes
- infection
- certain testicular diseases
Low sperm count could also be caused by:
- history of mumps
- overheating due to saunas, hot tubs etc.
- infections
- use of certain medications
If a male partner is having difficulty conceiving it is important that both parties investigate fertility at their local doctors office as low sperm count may not always manifest in symptomatically obvious signs.
Causes of Low Sperm Count
Having a low sperm count can be a sign of infertility in men. A low sperm count can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from lifestyle choices to health conditions. It’s important to understand the potential causes of having a low sperm count in order to take the necessary steps to increase fertility.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common causes of low sperm count in men:
Genetic factors
Genetic factors may play a role in low sperm counts and infertility in men. There are several known genetic causes of reduced fertility in males: Klinefelter syndrome, cystic fibrosis, Kartagener syndrome, and varicoceles.
- Klinefelter syndrome is a condition where there is an additional X chromosome present in the male’s body. This extra chromosome can cause a wide range of physical and mental health problems as well as infertility.
- Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disorder that affects the lung and digestive system, resulting in a decreased production of sperm cells.
- Kartagener syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects sperm motility and may cause infertility.
- Varicoceles occur when valves inside certain veins located around the testicles fail to properly shut, causing the veins to become enlarged and resulting in poor sperm quality.
Other contributing factors associated with genetic defects that can lead to low sperm count include:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Exposure to chemicals or toxins, antibiotics or chemotherapy; radiation exposure; alcohol use; cigarette smoking; extreme temperatures; infections such as mumps orchitis; testicular trauma or surgery; undescended testicles at birth; obesity; chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease; and anabolic steroids use.
- Some men may also be exposed to environmental agents such as heavy metals that can disrupt reproductive function leading to low fertility rates.
Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can interfere with sperm production and function. Testosterone regulates male fertility, and certain conditions or lifestyle habits can potentially disrupt hormone levels, including:
- Hypogonadism: Hypogonadism occurs when the testes don’t produce enough testosterone. Low levels of testosterone may lead to improper development of sperm-producing cells in the testicles.
- Obesity: Being significantly overweight impacts sex hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. Obesity is also linked to lower sperm count and an increased risk of infertility.
- Medications: Medications like antidepressants, chemotherapy treatments, steroids and some antibiotics may negatively affect sperm count or cause erectile dysfunction in men.
- Excessive stress: Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, a natural hormone released under times of distress that has been known to reduce the number of healthy sperm produced in men. Stress can also be linked to feelings of depression or anxiety, reducing libido which further reduces the chances for conception.
Medications
Medications can cause decreased sperm count, including some prescribed to treat:
- Depression
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol
- Infections
In addition, some anabolic steroids commonly abused by athletes and bodybuilders can have an impact. If you have been prescribed any medications recently, speak with your doctor about possible side effects and ask about any treatment changes that could potentially reduce these side effects. It’s also important to know that recreational drug use, such as marijuana and cocaine, has been linked to infertility in men as well as women.
Environmental factors
There are several environmental factors that can have an adverse effect on male fertility, specifically in terms of sperm count. These include:
- Exposure to certain drugs, chemicals, and toxins. Drugs such as steroids or heroin, as well as besticides and other environmental toxins can all affect sperm production. Long-term exposure to radiation and x-rays can also lead to a decrease in sperm counts.
- Lifestyle habits like smoking or drinking alcohol frequently. Consuming excessive amounts of these substances can impair healthy sperm production.
- Changes in temperature or excessive heat exposure. Exposure to extremely hot temperatures over an extended period of time, either from external sources such as saunas or hot tubs, or even prolonged exposure to tight fitting underwear, can cause the testicles to become too overheated for normal production of healthy sperm.
It is important that men who are trying to conceive understand the potential impact of environmental factors on their fertility and take steps to reduce their risk if necessary.
Diagnosis of Low Sperm Count
Low sperm count, or Oligozoospermia, is a common problem in men, and is often diagnosed through semen analysis. This diagnostic process typically involves examining the semen sample to count the number of sperm cells, measure the semen volume, detect any abnormalities within the sperm, and measure the amount of sperm motility.
Knowing the results of a semen analysis can help identify the cause of a man’s infertility. Furthermore, understanding these results can also help to determine the best course of treatment to increase fertility.
Semen analysis
Semen analysis, also known as a sperm count test, is an important part of diagnosing male infertility. It is a test to measure the number and quality of a man’s sperm. It’s your primary tool for determining whether a man has a low sperm count (oligozoospermia) or no sperm at all (azoospermia).
For this test, your doctor will ask you to provide a sample of semen during the clinic visit. The analysis looks at the health and quantity of the sperm cells in your sample. It will provide information on the concentration of sperm cells in your sample and how many are moving properly. Your doctor may also check for signs such as antibodies against your own semen, which can be present in certain cases of infertility.
Your doctor may use various tests including spermatogenesis testing to determine if any underlying conditions, such as hormones or blocked tubes, are causing your fertility issues. Additional testing may require blood samples taken from both you and the partner in order to assess hormone levels or genetic conditions that could be contributing to low fertility rates.
Once these tests have been completed, further treatments such as artificial insemination procedures can be considered if necessary.
Hormone testing
Hormone testing for male fertility is a vital part of diagnosing low sperm count. The hormones most often checked include follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), both produced in the pituitary gland, as well as testosterone, which is produced in the testicles. In some cases, prolactin – which is normally associated with lactation in women – may also be checked due to its potential role in male infertility.
Measurements of FSH and LH can help to identify whether there is blockage of the seminiferous tubules that transport sperm from the testes. A high level of FSH or LH can indicate an obstruction along the pathway, such as a varicocele or a prolapsed epididymis (the coiled tube through which sperm mature and become motile). Low levels may suggest insufficient stimulation of the testes by these two hormones.
Testosterone measurements are essential to evaluating male fertility because this hormone helps regulate other processes associated with spermatogenesis, such as sperm production, maturation and motility.
Prolactin should be evaluated if men have signs or symptoms of increased pituitary function, such as lower abdominal pain or tenderness in one side that could indicate a pituitary tumor known as a prolactinoma. High levels suggest an underlying problem with production or regulation of this particular hormone and may need further investigation through a CT scan or MRI imaging study.
Genetic testing
When trying to determine the cause of low sperm count, a doctor may recommend beginning with an evaluation of a man’s full medical history. This involves asking questions such as family medical history and any lifestyle habits, such as smoking and alcohol use, that could impact fertility. In some cases, genetic testing can be helpful in assessing potential causes for male infertility. Additionally, genetic testing may provide clues about potential inherited disorders or chromosomal abnormalities accountable for impaired fertility.
For individuals with strong family histories of infertility or conditions like cystic fibrosis—and those among whom no other cause is obvious—genetic testing may be suggested. Depending on previous test results and a man’s specific condition, genetic evaluation may include testing for one or more of the following markers:
- Karyotype analysis (an examination of an individual’s complete set of chromosomes)
- Y Chromosome microdeletion mutation (which includes deletion Y mutations known as AZFc)
- Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator (CFTR) gene mutation
- Single Gene Testing (for various genes linked to infertility conditions including CBAVD [congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens] and SCOS [severe combined ovarian syndrome])
- Mutation Carrier Profiling Tests (to identify risk factors associated with inherited disorders like cystic fibrosis)
If genetics are believed to play a role in male subfertility or infertility, then specialized evaluations will be done to properly diagnose any potential gene abnormality.
Treatment Options
If you have been diagnosed with a low sperm count or fertility issues, there are a variety of treatments available to help you and your partner conceive. These treatments range from lifestyle changes to assisted reproductive technologies. This article will help you explore the different treatment options and determine which one is best for you.
Lifestyle changes
If you have had a medical evaluation to determine there is no underlying medical cause for not being fertile, lifestyle changes may be recommended. These changes include improving nutrition, reducing stress, modifying your sleeping habits and exercising regularly. You should also avoid activities or behaviors that increase the risk of infertility, such as smoking or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of lean proteins, unprocessed whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables are essential for achieving optimal health and fertility. Avoiding processed foods high in sugar and fat will help optimize fertility by aiding in weight regulation – both too much or too little body fat can impair reproductive function.
Stress: The impact of stress on reproduction can be serious – but it doesn’t always have to be prolonged or intense stress to cause infertility in men. Stress can lower sperm count by decreasing the hormones that regulate spermatogenesis. Therefore, it’s important to find ways to cope with everyday stressors, such as using relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
Sleep: Poor quality sleep can adversely affect fertility in men due to disruptions in hormone production caused by lack of restful sleep. This includes cortisol levels which are associated with impaired spermatogenesis when increased for prolonged periods of time due to sleep deprivation or poor quality sleep habits. Try winding down before bedtime with 30 minutes of stretching, reading or light meditation practice before turning in for the night.
Exercise: Regular exercise has been found to positively reduce inflammation and improve reproductive health online results through improved hormone balance which is important for optimizing sexual functioning and sperm production in males suffering from infertility issues. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week divided between moderate intensity (such as walking) and strength exercises (such as weights).
Medications
Fertile males can have medication to increase sperm count and improve motility. These medications work best when sperm production is low, but not absent. The most commonly prescribed medications are clomiphene citrate and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG).
- Clomiphene citrate stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone (LH), which causes the testicles to produce more testosterone and sperm.
- Human Chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) encourages the production of testosterone and also stimulates healthy sperm production in the testes.
When used in combination, these two medications are usually quite effective at improving sperm count, motility and morphology, although even with treatment a couple may not be able to conceive naturally. Treatment may also be combined with intrauterine insemination or assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF or ICSI.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be an option for men who have fertility problems. Treatment can vary depending on the underlying cause of fertility issues and a patient’s personal goals. It’s important to consult a doctor before deciding whether surgery is the right treatment for your condition.
There are several types of surgeries that may help treat infertility:
- Vasectomy reversal. This surgery reverses a vasectomy and can restore sperm production in some cases.
- Varicocelectomy. This procedure repairs dilated veins around the testicles to increase blood flow and improve sperm production or mobility.
- Testicular biopsy (TESA). This minimally-invasive procedure involves taking a small sample of tissue from each testicle to examine in the lab and determine if there are any genetic conditions impacting fertility.
- Ejaculatory duct resection (EDR). This procedure removes blockages in the ejaculatory ducts to restore normal function.
- Penis reconstruction or correction (PRCI/PRCII). These surgeries repair deformities, injuries or abnormally wide urethras which could be hindering fertility by preventing semen from being released during ejaculation.
Prevention
Prevention is key when it comes to fertility issues with males. There are several steps that men can take to reduce their risk of infertility. Identifying possible risk factors, making lifestyle changes and taking measures to protect the reproductive organs are all important steps that can help males avoid factors that can lead to infertility.
Let’s explore these and other measures to prevent infertility in males:
Avoid smoking and drinking
It is important for men to be aware that smoking, drinking alcohol and other such lifestyle behaviors may have a negative impact on their fertility. Smoking infers a number of health risks on fertility that include damage to testes and sperm production, an increased risk of genital mutilation or blockage, the effects of smoking-induced toxins on semen quality, decreased sperm motility and an impaired timing system in the release of sperm. Similarly, alcohol abuse can decrease testosterone levels in men, leading to infertility.
In addition to this, research has established that there is a direct correlation between obesity and low semen quality; however it is unclear whether male obesity has any significant effect on the production or quality of sperm cells. Evidence also suggests that environmental toxins such as pesticides may also have a negative effect on fertility.
Given these risks associated with male infertility, it’s important for men to adopt healthful lifestyle practices that can prevent further decline in semen quality and testicular function. Men should quit smoking immediately if they haven’t already done so and maintain a healthy weight. Exercise regularly to keep fit and spend time outdoors away from polluted environments whenever possible. It is also important for males to reduce their exposure to stress-related triggers like long hours at work or financial problems as these can significantly impact libido and contribute towards poor reproductive performance.
Avoid exposure to toxic substances
To prevent fertility loss and other health concerns, it’s important to avoid regular exposure to certain substances. These include infections and environmental toxins that increase the risk of infertility.
Studies have shown that toxins have been linked to decreased sperm production, motility, morphology, count, and quality in men. For example, tobacco smoke contains numerous toxins that can damage sperm. Other toxins such as lead and certain pesticides can accumulate in the body over time leading to decreased male fertility potential.
While avoiding these toxic substances may improve overall health, not all environmental pollutants are avoidable in day-to-day life or even workplace exposure. The best way to protect yourself from harm is by:
- Eating a balanced and healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Taking nutritional supplements specifically tailored for male fertility
- Getting adequate sleep and rest
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding the use of recreational drugs
By following these lifestyle habit changes there may be a chance of increasing fertility potential and help you know if you are a fertile or infertile male.
Exercise regularly
For males, exercise has many benefits for fertility, including improved testosterone levels, increased body weight and reduced levels of stress. Regular physical activity is essential for optimal reproductive health. Getting an adequate amount of exercise helps to improve overall pelvic muscle tone, boosts sperm production and increases testosterone production. Studies have also found that men who exercise regularly may reduce their risk of infertility by up to one-third.
Additionally, exercise helps reduce the stress hormone cortisol in the body which can put a strain on reproductive hormones and negatively impact fertility if left unchecked. Male fertility can be further improved by engaging in muscle-strengthening activities such as weight lifting or resistance training as this type of exercise can raise testosterone levels over time. Aim to get 30 minutes or more of moderate activity each day, or 20 minutes or more of intense aerobic activity at least three times per week for best results.
