Fertility experts are encouraging men who have a low sperm count to seek appropriate medical help, as the condition can be treated with the right medical intervention. It is important to note that the treatment depends on the underlying cause, and many cases of low sperm count are associated with an underlying reason, although people may not be aware of it.
To be considered as having normal semen, the World Health Organization's criteria state that a man should produce 15 million spermatozoa per milliliter of ejaculated volume or 39 million in the entire sample.
According to the British National Health Service, having a low sperm count can make natural conception more challenging. However, successful pregnancies can still occur even with a low sperm count.
Dr. Gabriel Ogah, a Consultant Urologist, and Dr. Mojisola Aderonmu, a fertility expert, emphasized the importance of men getting tested for low sperm count, as they may not even be aware of the condition. Dr. Ogah highlighted the need for increased awareness about low sperm count in Nigeria, as it has become a common issue among men in the country.
A study conducted in Abakaliki, Eastern Nigeria, found that 70% of the participants had a low sperm count with significantly high defective parameters. The study revealed that reduced sperm motility and abnormal sperm morphology were the major abnormalities observed.
Dr. Ogah explained that testicular failure, where the testes are no longer functioning properly, is the most common cause of low sperm count worldwide. Varicocele, which refers to the enlargement of veins in the scrotum, is a common form of testicular failure.
Other factors that can contribute to low sperm count include environmental toxins, pesticide residues in food, heat exposure around the waist area (such as in long-distance drivers), hormonal factors, and chronic testicular infections.
Dr. Aderonmu added that obesity, alcohol misuse or abuse, smoking, and certain medical conditions like cancer can also cause low sperm count. The treatment of low sperm count depends on the underlying cause and may involve medication, hormone therapy, or the use of donor sperm.
The duration of treatment varies depending on the cause and the individual's response to the treatment. To prevent low sperm count, it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle by avoiding alcohol and tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants.
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