What is low sperm count?
Low sperm count
Sperm quality isn't something you think about every day. If you and your partner want to conceive or grow a family, however, the number and quality of swimmers you possess is perhaps the most important consideration. While only one sperm is required to fertilize an egg after sex, the journey to get there can be difficult. You have a better chance if you have a lot of sperm. Let's look at why you might just have a low sperm count, how to tell if you have, and what therapies are available to help you enhance your reserves or improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Causes of low sperm count
Male infertility is commonly caused by a low sperm count, also known as oligospermia. A sperm count of less than 15 million sperm per milliliter (mL) of sperm is considered low, however the average is over 75 million sperm per mL. Obesity or overweight, trauma or surgery in and around the testicles, and the use of certain drugs are also risk factors. Other factors that may lead to increased risk include overheating your testicles or having other medical problems. Beyond that, there are a number of factors that contribute to poor sperm quality, which can be classified into three categories: medical, environmental, and lifestyle.
- Medical
Low sperm count can be caused by a history of testicular symptoms, injury, or surgery, as well as genetic diseases such Klinefelter syndrome. Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery are among cancer treatments that might impact hormone and sperm development. Radiation to the testicles affects the cells that produce sperm directly, but radiation to the brain or surgery to the brain can also result in a reduced sperm count since hormones released in the brain encourage sperm production.
Other factors to consider are
- Varicocele is a swelling of the veins that drain the testicles and is one of the most prevalent reasons of male infertility. Prior infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause blockages, scarring, and other harm to the reproductive system.
- Erection or ejaculation problems (For example, diabetes and spinal injuries may cause erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation.)
- Immune system problems, such as cystic fibrosis or being a genetic carrier of cystic fibrosis, can prevent sperm from accessing the uterus.
- Prior to surgery to the male reproductive system, such as testicular surgery, bladder surgery, surgery for undescended testes, inguinal hernia repair, and, of course, a vasectomy, medical procedures, treatments, or medications for a variety of conditions, including some cancer, antifungal, antibiotic, and ulcer drugs
2. Environment
The testicles are located beyond the abdominal cavity because optimal sperm conditions are somewhat lower than body temperature. Sperm production can be reduced if your testicles are overheated. This means that everything from frequent use of hot baths to sitting with your computer on your lap could reduce your count. Overexposure to herbicides, pesticides, solvents, and other chemical products or heavy metals are other probable environmental causes. Radiation from X-rays or other sources may also have an effect on sperm production.
3. Lifestyle
Excessive drug and alcohol usage, as well as the use of tobacco or vaping, can all reduce sperm count. Anabolic steroids, that are commonly used to gain muscular mass, nearly always cause testicles to shrink and sperm production to decline. Marijuana and opiates both have a negative impact on sperm production. Other factors to consider are:
- Small amounts of anabolic steroids may be found in testosterone boosters, vitamins, and pre-workout supplements advertised to a workout crowd, all of which can impair sperm production.
- Jobs requiring long periods of sitting, such as truck driving.
- Emotional issues, such as stress and depression, especially if they're long-term.
- Severe body weight, particularly if you're obese or overweight, can also affect hormones.
How to boost stamina
- Exercise regularly
You're more inclined to think, "I need to lay down," rather than "I need to get up and move my body," when you're sleepy. Consistent exercise, on the other hand, is a critical component of increasing stamina and providing a much-needed boost of energy. Endorphins are released throughout exercise and help you feel less tired. Endorphins, according to studies, aid to reduce pain during exercise by essentially suppressing pain and substituting it with a happy feeling.
2. Consume healthy foods
A well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining energy levels during workouts and throughout the day. Limit sugar and processed foods while eating mostly whole foods (think plenty of fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats). Don't forget about carbohydrates. It's easy to blame carbs for everything, yet they're a crucial element of a healthy diet, particularly when it comes to exercise. According to a study, eating carbohydrates a few hours prior working out will boost energy, boost stamina and performance, and keep you from being exhausted right away. Because carbs are our bodies' primary fuel source, one-third of your diet should consist of whole grains, potatoes, pasta, and rice.
3. Stay hydrated
You may feel weak, weary, and cognitively exhausted as a result of dehydration. Staying well hydrated before, during, and after exercise has been shown to improve performance, delay weariness, and reduce injuries in studies. Throughout the day, you must always drink the recommended amount of water. Keep in mind, however, that excessive hydration can have harmful consequences. Too much water can hinder performance by increasing stress levels, according to research, partly because it might make you feel bloated and force you to urinate more frequently. While water is the best option, some studies have suggested that sports drinks with minimal sugar and electrolytes can assist improve performance and stamina.
Take Away
Couples with low sperm counts can conceive. It may simply take longer than you anticipated, and you may need to consult a doctor to learn how to increase your sperm quality and indulge in healthy sex. Make an appointment with the doctor if you feel you have a problem. That way, you'll have a clearer idea of how low your count is, what treatments are available, and whether you want to pursue family-building options like IUI or IVF. If you have a low sperm count due to an underlying health condition, the doctor can help you get the therapy you need to alleviate any other symptoms you're having.
