International

Having a low sperm count can be a very frustrating fertility problem for a man. The good news for the man with a low sperm count, however, is that having a low sperm count is very often a treatable condition. Having a low sperm count does not have to be the deciding factor on whether or not a man is able to have children. Even in the worst scenarios, where the low sperm count does not respond to less aggressive treatments, viable sperm can almost always be extracted to use in procedures such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or ICSI.

The treatment for low sperm count depends, greatly, on what exactly it is that is causing the low sperm count. Some of the most common causes of a low sperm count can include genetic causes, stress, varicoceles, nutritional deficiencies, infections, obesity, the use of prescription or illicit drugs, and smoking. Even exposure to heavy metals is thought, in some cases, to lead to a low sperm count. Knowing the cause of a low sperm count can enable you and your health care provider to develop a treatment plan that has a higher chance of success. For example, if the cause is a lifestyle issue or a nutritional issue, it may be relatively easy to address the problem. If the problem is more complex, such as with varicoceles, treatment for a low sperm count will have to be a lot more aggressive. In other instances, such as occurs with genetic causes, it may not be possible at all to treat a low sperm count.

There are other treatment options for a low sperm count outside of these sorts of medical options. There are a variety of nutritional supplements, as well as vitamins and minerals that are thought to help with a low sperm count. Maintaining a high protein, low-fat diet that is rich in vegetables and whole grains may help, as well. The timing of intercourse may impact a low sperm count, as well. Ejaculating less often, for example, is thought to help with low sperm count. It is thought that keeping at least 3 days between ejaculations is probably the range that you should go for. Avoiding excess heat on the testicles, as well, may be an important part of treatment for a low sperm count. This would include avoiding tight or restricting underwear or clothing, and avoiding saunas or hot tubs.