It is believed that 1 out of 6 couples cannot get pregnant and need help discovering the cause of the problem. Infertility is a difficult subject to tackle for both men and women. For women it is being unable to to get pregnant or stay pregnant after trying for one year. If she is 35 or older, it is after trying for 6 months. Male infertility is a health issue that lowers his chances of getting his partner pregnant. Up to 50% of infertility cases are linked to the man. There are numerous causes including low sperm count. How can a urologist help with low sperm count?
What Does Low Sperm Count Mean?
If everything is working as it should, a man makes cells called sperm. They are made in the testicles and become nourished and maintained by semen. Fertility is based on his ability to make enough healthy sperm that can be delivered to his partner.
The standard number of sperm released during an ejaculation is 100 million. Of course only one is needed to fertilize the egg. Low sperm count is defined as less than 15 million sperm/mL. This low sperm count is called oligospermia.
A urologist like Dr. Roger Khouri can perform tests to determine whether a man’s sperm count is too low.
What Are Some Typical Causes of a Low Sperm Count?
- Obesity is one common cause due to the layers of fat overheating the testicles and impeding sperm production.
- Alcohol in excess can lower sperm count and the level of the hormone testosterone.
- Stress can affect a man’s ability to make sperm.
- Heat itself is bad for sperm production. Taking hot baths, sitting in hot tubs, and placing electronics on your lap can affect sperm production.
- Infections and STDs can contribute to low sperm count.
- Sperm disorders include sperm that are not fully developed, have an odd shape, or have a mobility issue.
- Swollen veins in the scrotum known as varicoceles stunt sperm growth.
- Retrograde ejaculation causes sperm to go backwards.
- An obstruction can cause low sperm count.
In addition, the use of steroids, certain medications, and intense exercise (or lack thereof) can also contribute to low sperm count.
Signs of Low Sperm Count and Treatments
A man can notice several signs that indicate he may have a low sperm count. Among others they include: the inability to conceive with no female issues present, sexual dysfunction like low libido or ED, pain, and discomfort or swelling of the testicles with a lump.
The best way to determine if you have a low sperm count is to see a urologist like Dr. Roger Khouri in Hauppauge and Bay Shore, NY. A treatment plan will be recommended based on your individual diagnosis. Surgery and medications are possible treatment options along with lifestyle changes to encourage better overall health.
Don’t give up, there are many treatments for low sperm count and infertility.
Schedule a Low Sperm Count Consultation in Hauppauge and Bay Shore, NY
Contact Dr. Roger Khouri at (631) 273-1258 if you want help to determine if low sperm count is the reason for your infertility.
Sources: The Tough Subject of Male Infertility: How a Urologist Can Help (gaurology.com)
Male Infertility – Urology Care Foundation (urologyhealth.org)
Three Signs That You Should See a Urologist | MFS Blog (malefertility.com)