Low Sperm Count: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Low sperm count is one of the most common causes of male infertility. Learn what causes it, how it's diagnosed, and what treatments are available.
Male-factor infertility contributes to close to half of all infertility cases, and low sperm count (oligospermia) is one of the most common causes. Understanding it is the first step toward effective treatment.
What Counts as "Low" Sperm Count?
A semen analysis measures sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape). A count below 15 million sperm per millilitre is generally considered low, though motility and morphology matter just as much as the raw count.
Common Causes
- Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Infections affecting the reproductive tract
- Lifestyle factors — smoking, excess alcohol, obesity, prolonged heat exposure (tight clothing, laptops on lap, hot tubs)
- Certain medications or past surgeries
- Genetic factors, in some cases
Signs You Might Notice
Often, there are no obvious symptoms — low sperm count is usually discovered only through a semen analysis done as part of a fertility work-up. Occasionally, hormonal imbalance can cause reduced sexual desire or, rarely, swelling around the testicles.
Treatment Options
- Lifestyle changes — quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, and weight management can improve mild cases.
- Medication — for hormonal causes.
- Surgery — for varicocele or blockages, in select cases.
- IUI — suitable for mild-to-moderate low count with reasonable motility.
- ICSI — the most effective option for severe low count, as it requires only a single healthy sperm per egg.
Getting Evaluated
A semen analysis is simple, quick, and often the most informative first test in a couple's fertility work-up. If you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success, both partners should be evaluated — not just the woman.
Kalyani IVF, Saharsa offers complete male infertility treatment, from diagnosis through ICSI. Book a free consultation to get evaluated.