Five Common Causes of Low Sperm Count

When a couple is experiencing infertility, a semen analysis is often done to determine a man's sperm count, as well as how healthy his sperm are. When a couple finds out that their infertility may be related to a low sperm count, it can be very difficult to cope with, especially when there are so many different things that could be causing a low sperm count

Varicoceles A varicocele is an swollen, varicose vein located in the scrotum. It is not uncommon for men to have a varicocele and roughly 15% of men have one. These swollen veins can affect how the sperm are able to be released from the testicles. If a varicocele is affecting fertility, it may be corrected surgically or the couple may opt for intrauterine insemination to get pregnant, which injects the sperm directly into the uterus, bypassing the vaginal canal.


Heat exposure The testicles are outside of the body in order to keep the testicles cool to protect sperm from dying from the heat. Men who expose their scrotum to heat may have a lower sperm count than men that don't. Taking hot baths, using a hot tub, placing laptop computers on the lap or keeping the groin too warm just from clothing can negatively impact sperm count.

Retrograde ejaculation
In some cases, a man with a low sperm count may suffer from something known as retrograde ejaculation. Retrograde ejaculation occurs when semen doesn't follow the usual course and eject out of the urethra, but instead, enters the bladder during orgasm. Retrograde ejaculation may be a symptom of a much more serious problem, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or may be the result of a spinal injury or surgery on the bladder, prostrate or urethra. In some cases, retrograde ejaculation may even be a side effect of certain medications.

Illness and infection
In women, suffering from an illness or infection can delay or prevent ovulation. Men's bodies work similarly. If a man is suffering from an illness or infection, it could potentially lower his sperm count until he regains his health.

Use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco The use of illicit drugs, alcohol and tobacco products may decrease a man's sperm count. The use of tobacco is especially concerning and could dramatically decrease the number of healthy sperm in a man's ejaculate. For couples who are trying to conceive, it is best to give up smoking as well as alcohol and drug consumption while trying to conceive.