Low sperm count is a male infertility problem that is actually much more common than most people think. Three decades ago, the average sperm count was 60 million/ml. Today, it’s only 20 million/ml. This data is according to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
When undiagnosed and untreated, a low sperm count can hinder success in pregnancy. Doctors say that male infertility factor is the primary reason why people between the ages of 29 to 35 are having difficulty conceiving. What’s making the situation worse is social stigma!
How do you know if you have this problem? Watch out for these symptoms:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain in testicles
- Body hair changes and other hormonal abnormality
If you think you are suffering from low sperm count, there is no shame in getting tested and undergoing treatment if necessary. Some of the possible treatments your doctor may recommend include:
Lifestyle changes to improve reproductive health
The modern lifestyle is a major cause of low sperm count and other male infertility issues. Poor diet, smoking, lack of exercise, and other bad habits contribute to this problem. It is widely believed that improving one’s lifestyle can significantly increase sperm count. This means eating properly, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and alcohol.
Taking vitamins or supplements
Your doctor may also prescribe supplements intended to increase sperm count and counter other male infertility issues. This will include supplements that increase D-AA, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc levels.
Taking antibiotics
If the reason why your sperm count is low is because of an infection in the reproductive tract, then you may be given antibiotics.
ICSI fertility treatment
If you are planning on getting pregnant as soon as possible, then ICSI treatment is recommended. This procedure will not improve sperm count but it will increase the chances of pregnancy. ICSI is similar to IVF, except that the strongest and most viable sperm cell is selected and injected directly into the egg.