Low Sperm Count and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Sperm count is important for a man to make a woman pregnant. A normal count is between 40 to 300 million sperm in 1 ml of semen. If it's less than 15 million, it's called a low sperm count.

This can make pregnancy harder but not impossible. There are ways to improve the chances of getting pregnant.

Symptoms of Low Sperm Count

You might not notice any signs of low sperm count until you try to have a baby. In fact, infertility is often the first and main sign of oligospermia (low sperm count).

If the low sperm count is due to another health issue—such as a hormone imbalance, a testicular problem, a blockage, or a genetic condition—you may experience other symptoms related to that cause. These can include:

Low sex drive
Trouble getting or keeping an erection (erectile dysfunction)
Pain or swelling in the testicles
Reduced facial or body hair

These symptoms point to the underlying issue, not directly to low sperm count.

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Causes of Low Sperm Count

Varicocele – Swollen veins in the testicles that affect sperm production.
Infections – Such as sexually transmitted infections or testicular inflammation.
Hormonal Imbalance – Issues with hormones like testosterone can reduce sperm count.
Lifestyle Factors – Smoking, alcohol, drugs, stress, or being overweight.
Heat and Toxins – Exposure to high temperatures or harmful chemicals.

How to Get Pregnant With Low Sperm Count?

A low sperm count is also called Oligospermia, Oligozoospermia. Although it is a major cause of male infertility, men with a low sperm count are still able to produce sperms, and the sperms are also found in the ejaculate.

Overall Sperm Quality Matters: Pregnancy depends on more than just sperm count. Sperm motility (movement) and morphology (shape) are also crucial factors.
Signs of Low Sperm Count: If a man struggles to get his partner pregnant, it could indicate a low sperm count.
Importance of Sperm Motility: Non-motile sperm can't reach the egg for fertilization.
Role of Sperm Morphology: Abnormal sperm shape may prevent penetration of the egg.
Healthy Lifestyle for Fertility: While no specific foods boost male infertility, a healthy lifestyle supports fertility.
Challenges with Oligospermia: Some men with low sperm count (oligospermia) can still achieve pregnancy naturally, but it might take longer and more attempts.
Fertilization Challenges: Fewer sperm in ejaculate means lower chances of reaching the egg in the female reproductive tract, reducing natural fertilization likelihood.

How To Get Pregnant With Low Sperm Count Naturally?

Track Ovulation: Monitor the woman's ovulation cycle closely and have sex around her most fertile days, usually a few days before and during ovulation.
Stay Healthy: Both partners should eat well, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. A healthy lifestyle can improve fertility.
Consider Supplements: Some supplements like zinc, folic acid, and vitamin C may help improve sperm health. Talk to a doctor before taking any supplements.
Avoid Heat: Men should avoid hot baths, saunas, and tight underwear, as heat can lower sperm count. Keeping cool can help sperm production.
Be Patient: Getting pregnant can take time, so try to stay positive and keep trying. If it's not happening, consult a doctor for more advice.

Low Sperm Count Treatment

Low sperm count pregnancy can be successful in assisted reproductive technology.
If the underlying cause of the male partner's semen containing low sperm count can't be treated naturally or with medication, assisted reproductive technology can be helpful.
ART treatment options include getting sperm by either natural ejaculation, clinical extraction or sperm from a donor.
Based on an individual's situation, the doctor would suggest what could be the best treatment available.

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The Different Ways To Conceive With Low Sperm Count

IUI with Low Sperm Count

This is helpful when sperm count is slightly low. The best sperm are collected and placed directly into the woman's uterus to help them reach the egg faster.

IVF With Low Sperm Count

If IUI doesn't work, IVF may be used. The sperm and egg are joined in a lab dish. Once an egg is fertilized, it is placed into the uterus.

ICSI-IVF With Low Sperm Count

For very low sperm count, doctors use ICSI. One healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg. This method is done along with IVF and gives better results.

Surgical Sperm Extraction and ICSI-IVF

If sperm isn't found in semen, doctors can take it directly from the testicles using a minor procedure. The sperm is then used for ICSI.

Donor Sperm

If sperm can't be used at all, donor sperm may be suggested. This is only done after discussing it with the couple and getting their approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, healthy lifestyle habits like eating nutritious food, regular exercise, reducing stress, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and hot baths can help improve sperm count and quality.

If you've been trying to get pregnant for over a year (or 6 months if the woman is over 35), it's a good idea to consult a fertility specialist.

Yes, high levels of stress can affect hormone levels, reduce sperm production, and lower libido, which may impact fertility.

Yes, while men can remain fertile longer than women, sperm quality (count, motility, and shape) can decline with age, especially after 40.

In addition to sperm count, doctors check sperm motility, morphology (shape), and semen volume. Hormone levels, genetic tests, and testicular exams may also be done.