Male Fertility: Treatment Options for Low Sperm Count
Dr Navdeep Singh Pannu
Medical Director, Consultant Obstetrician, Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist | Laparoscopic Surgeon
Oligospermia is a condition where a male has a low sperm count. This condition can impact a man’s fertility and is caused by factors like, hormonal imbalance, lifestyle, genetics, or underlying medical issues.?
Having that said, a man can test his sperm count through a semen analysis. This analysis can assess sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape).?
Here are some treatment options that can help improve male fertility.
Lifestyle Changes:
A balanced diet that includes antioxidants and vitamins can improve sperm quality. These essential nutrients can help combat oxidative stress, which can damage sperm cells. Examples include, vitamin C and E, Zinc, Folic Acid, and Selenium. Some fruits and vegetables like berries, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, whole grains, and lean protein also help improve sperm quality.?
Regular physical activity can boost overall health, including fertility. Exercising helps to regulate and boost sperm count, motility, and morphology. Moreover, it helps to reduce stress levels and maintain a healthy body weight, which positively impacts fertility. The best type of exercises for fertility are the low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and yoga.
Maintaining a healthy weight can improve sperm quality. A healthy weight will produce a healthy and balanced hormone health. In addition to this, a healthy weight management also means reducing the risk of obesity and having regulated insulin health and avoiding the occurrence of chronic inflammation, which is often associated with obesity. The best way to manage weight is to practice healthy eating habits and exercise.
Managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga can be beneficial. Regular meditation and mindfulness practices can reduce stress and anxiety. Another way to help manage stress would be to practice deep breathing to help calm the body and mind, prioritizing sleep to allow the body to rest and rejuvenate and manage a work-life balance. It is also important to remember that, if necessary, it is always okay to seek therapy so address underlying emotional challenges.?
Last, but not least, it is important to avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to toxins.
Medication:
Hormone therapy can help regulate the Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels, thus improving sperm production.??
Antibiotics are usually given to treat underlying infections, improving sperm quality.
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART):
IUI is a procedure where the sperm is directly inserted into the uterus near the time of ovulation.
IVF involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory and transferring the embryos into the uterus.
While there is no guaranteed cure for low sperm count, it is always important to consult with a fertility specialist. They will be able to evaluate your situation, diagnose the reason for the low sperm count, and personalize a treatment plan for you.
By identifying and addressing the root causes of low sperm count and making positive lifestyle changes, many men can improve their fertility and realize their dream of fatherhood.
This article is intended for educational purposes only. All contents here is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances. Please consult with your health care professional to ensure you get the right diagnosis and treatment.