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How is Oligospermia (Low Sperm Count) Treated?

How is Oligospermia (Low Sperm Count) Treated?
Illustration of a fertility consultation. Credits: Freepik

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Oligospermia is a condition where the sperm count is below the normal range, which can have a significant impact on fertility and the ability to conceive. For many men, low sperm count is a concern that requires attention to increase the chances of pregnancy.

Fortunately, there are various treatments available for overcoming oligospermia. Understanding these options is essential to addressing the issue and improving fertility.

 

How to Overcome Oligospermia

Oligospermia can result from several factors, including an unhealthy lifestyle, hormonal imbalances, or problems within the male reproductive organs. The appropriate treatment largely depends on the underlying cause of the low sperm count.

Here are some effective treatment approaches for oligospermia:

Medical treatment

Treatment for oligospermia is tailored to the root cause. For hormonal imbalances, hormone therapy is often recommended to boost sperm production. Gonadotropin injections may be prescribed to stimulate sperm production in the testicles. Additionally, testosterone therapy may be used to correct low testosterone levels, but it is only applicable in cases of hormone deficiencies.

If an infection is responsible for the low sperm count, antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs will likely be prescribed. Supplements such as vitamins C and E, zinc, folic acid, and CoQ10 can also be recommended to improve sperm count and quality.

Surgical procedures

In certain cases, surgical intervention is required. A common cause of low sperm count is varicocele, a condition where veins in the scrotum swell.

This can impair blood flow to the testicles, affecting sperm production. In such cases, a surgical procedure called varicocelectomy may be necessary. This surgery aims to enhance blood circulation to the testicles, thus improving sperm production.

Changes in lifestyle

In addition to medical treatment, adopting a healthier lifestyle can significantly improve sperm quality and quantity. Some important lifestyle changes to consider include:

  • Quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption: Smoking and heavy drinking can negatively affect sperm production and overall fertility.
  • Maintain a balanced diet: A nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can promote better sperm health.
  • Exercise regularly: Moderate physical activity can improve blood flow and reduce stress, which may enhance sperm production. However, avoid excessive exercise, as it can lower testosterone levels.
  • Avoid high temperatures: Excessive heat can harm sperm production. Limit the use of saunas or hot baths, and avoid tight clothing that restricts air circulation around the groin area.

 

If lifestyle changes and medical treatments don’t resolve the issue, assisted reproductive technology can help improve the chances of pregnancy. Some ART options include:

  • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): In this procedure, sperm is directly injected into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilization.
  • In vitro fertilization (IVF): In IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and then the resulting embryo is implanted into the uterus.
  • Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): This technique involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg. It is often used in cases of severe oligospermia where sperm quality is low.

Although oligospermia can affect fertility, many men can improve their sperm count and increase their chances of pregnancy with the right treatment.

If you’re experiencing difficulty conceiving or have concerns about your fertility, don’t hesitate to consult a fertility specialist. You can also access the consultation service through the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store and Play Store.

 

Want to learn more about fertility or other health concerns? Click here!

Writer : Agatha Writer
Editor :
  • dr Hanifa Rahma
Last Updated : Tuesday, 17 December 2024 | 14:01

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