Low sperm count treatment

Low sperm count and fertility issues affect more than 180 million couples all over the world. If you or your partner have been struggling with fertility issues, you may be wondering what options are available. Low sperm count can be a frustrating and stressful challenge for couples who want to conceive, but it's important to know that there are several treatments and strategies that may help.

Causes

What are the most common causes of low sperm count?

The most common causes of low sperm count include

certain medical conditions
- infections
- hormonal imbalances
- genetic disorders
- previous surgeries
lifestyle factors
- smoking
- drug use
- excessive alcohol consumption.
- overweight
exposure to environmental toxins, radiation, or certain medications can also contribute to low sperm count.

Treatment

What is the best treatment for low sperm count?

Surgery

Surgery is one of the treatment options for low sperm count, but it's not always necessary or effective. The goal of surgery is to correct any physical abnormalities that may be affecting sperm production or delivery.

One common surgical procedure for low sperm count is varicocele repair. Varicoceles are enlarged veins in the scrotum that can cause overheating and damage to the testicles, which can lead to decreased sperm production. Repairing a varicocele involves tying off or removing the affected vein.

Another potential surgery is a vasectomy reversal, which reconnects the tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the penis. However, this procedure does not guarantee increased fertility and success rates vary widely depending on factors such as how long ago the vasectomy was performed.

Alert: It's important to note that surgery may come with risks such as infection, bleeding and complications related to anaesthesia. It's also not always covered by insurance and can be expensive out of pocket.

As with any medical decision, it's crucial to weigh all options carefully and consult with your doctor before proceeding with surgery as a treatment option for low sperm count.

Treatment for problems during sexual intercourse

Sexual intercourse problems can greatly affect a couple's chances of conceiving. These issues may include erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or painful intercourse. Fortunately, there are treatments available to help improve sexual function and increase the likelihood of successful conception.

One option for treating erectile dysfunction is medication such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), or vardenafil (Levitra). These drugs work by increasing blood flow to the penis and allowing for an erection to occur. However, you should only take any form of medication after talking with your doctor.
For those experiencing premature ejaculation, behavioural techniques such as the squeeze technique or start-stop method can be effective in delaying ejaculation during intercourse. Additionally, topical creams containing lidocaine or prilocaine can also be used to reduce sensitivity and prolong sexual activity.
Painful intercourse may require additional medical intervention beyond behavioural changes alone. Lubricants can help ease discomfort caused by vaginal dryness while treatment of underlying conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease may be necessary to alleviate pain during sex.

Seeking professional guidance from a healthcare provider familiar with reproductive health concerns is crucial when dealing with sexual intercourse problems that could contribute towards low sperm count.

Hormone treatments and medications

Hormone treatments and medications are other options for men with low sperm counts. These treatments aim to balance hormone levels in the body, which may be contributing to the low sperm count.

One hormone that plays a crucial role in sperm production is testosterone. In some cases, low testosterone levels can contribute to a decrease in sperm count. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help increase testosterone levels and improve fertility.
Another medication commonly used for treating low sperm count is clomiphene citrate. This drug stimulates the release of hormones necessary for spermatogenesis, resulting in an increase in the number of mature sperm.
Gonadotropin injections are also an effective treatment option for men with hormonal imbalances affecting their fertility. These injections work by stimulating the testicles to produce more testosterone and promote healthy spermatogenesis.
It's important to note that these treatments should only be administered under medical supervision as they can have potential side effects such as acne, mood swings, and weight gain.

Hormone treatments and medications can be beneficial for individuals experiencing infertility due to hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment plan as they can provide personalized advice based on individual circumstances.

Infection Treatment

Treating infections is one of the ways to increase sperm count in men. Infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), can cause inflammation and damage to the reproductive system, leading to a decrease in sperm production. Thus, treating these infections promptly can help improve fertility.

To treat STDs, doctors may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications depending on the type of infection. It's essential to complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor even if symptoms disappear before completing it.
In addition to STDs, other bacterial infections can also affect male fertility. These include urinary tract infections (UTIs) and prostatitis. Treatment for these types of infections typically involves antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications.
It's worth noting that some viral infections like HIV cannot be cured but can be managed with medication to prevent them from further damaging the reproductive system.

Prompt treatment for any kind of infection is crucial for maintaining healthy sperm production and improving fertility outcomes for couples trying to conceive.

Assisted reproductive technology (ART)

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) offers a range of treatment options for men with low sperm count, including Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). These treatments can be highly effective in achieving pregnancy and have helped many couples start families.

It's important to remember that low sperm count is a treatable condition, and there are many different approaches available. Working closely with your doctor or fertility specialist can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and goals. If you're struggling with low sperm count, don't give up hope. With the right treatment plan, you can increase your chances of starting or growing your family.

Key Takeaway:

If you're having trouble conceiving, there are a variety of treatments and strategies available to address low sperm count.
These include surgery to repair physical abnormalities like varicoceles, treating infections that cause inflammation and damage to the reproductive system, and medication to increase sperm production.
Hormone treatments like testosterone replacement therapy may also help improve fertility.
ART, such as IVF, may be an option for some couples.
Seek guidance from a healthcare professional to determine which treatment option is best for you.

Frequently asked questions

What medicine is best for low sperm count?
Can low sperm count be treated naturally?
By eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding stress and getting proper sleep
How can I increase my sperm count fast?

Reference

Dr Purva Singh

MBBS MS OBGYN
IVF Specialist