Low Sperm Count

A low sperm count means semen that is ejaculated during an orgasm contains fewer sperm than usual. Fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen is considered a low sperm count. A low sperm count can decrease the chances of fertilizing a partner’s egg, resulting in a pregnancy. However, men with a low sperm count can still father a child with the help of science.

Oligospermia refers to a low sperm count.

Azoospermia is the complete absence of sperm.

Symptoms

• Problems with sexual function, including:
  • Low sex drive
  • Erectile dysfunction
• Pain, swelling, or a lump in the testicle area
• Signs of a chromosome or hormone abnormality, including:
  • Loss of hair on face and body
  • Enlarged male breast tissue

When to see a doctor

• Erection or ejaculation problems
• Low sex drive
• Pain, discomfort, a lump or swelling in the testicle area
• History of testicle, prostate, or sexual problems
• History of a groin, testicle, penis, or scrotum surgery

Causes

• Medical causes include:
  • Varicocele
  • Infection
  • Ejaculation problems
  • Antibodies that attack sperm
  • Tumors
  • Undescended testicles
  • Hormone imbalances
  • Defects of tubules that transport sperm
  • Chromosome defects
  • Celiac disease
  • Certain medications
  • Prior surgeries

• Environmental causes include:
  • Industrial chemicals
  • Heavy metal exposure
  • Radiation or X-rays
  • Overheating the testicles

• Health, lifestyle, and other causes include:
  • Drug use
  • Alcohol use
  • Tobacco use
  • Occupations associated with prolonged sitting
  • Emotional stress
  • Depression
  • Weight
  • Sperm testing issues