Oligospermia refers to a condition characterized by low sperm count in men. It is usually asymptomatic and is typically discovered when a couple is trying to conceive but is unable to conceive. There are various causes of oligospermia, and treatment is directed at the underlying cause. According to the World Health Organization's sperm parameters, valid since 2010, a sperm count below 15 million is considered oligospermia. Oligospermia is a significant cause of male infertility. Factors such as varicocele, various infections, and chemical exposure can cause oligospermia, and treatment is focused on identifying the underlying cause.

What are the symptoms of oligospermia?

Oligospermia is usually asymptomatic and, in most cases, only becomes apparent when difficulties in conceiving are noticed. Patients consult a doctor when they experience infertility. Oligospermia has no obvious symptoms and is often not detected during routine examinations or tests. Diagnosis is usually made through a spermiogram, which assesses sperm count, motility, and morphology. Therefore, the inability to conceive is often the primary symptom of oligospermia.

What are the types of oligospermia (low sperm count)?

Oligospermia refers to a condition in which the sperm count is below normal. It is categorized into three main categories: mild, moderate, and severe. Mild oligospermia is defined as having between 10 and 15 million sperm cells. Moderate oligospermia is defined as having between 5 and 10 million sperm cells. Severe oligospermia is defined as having less than 5 million sperm cells. Azoospermia is the absence of sperm cells.

Factors causing oligospermia

Oligospermia is a condition that can occur due to various causes. One of these is varicocele, a common condition in men. Varicoceles can cause dilation of the veins in the testicles and backward blood flow, leading to oligospermia. While varicocele surgery can sometimes provide relief, in other cases, the condition persists or worsens.

Infections can also cause oligospermia. Infections, particularly in the reproductive organs, can affect sperm production. Ejaculation problems, such as premature or frequent ejaculation, can also lead to oligospermia.

Oligospermia can often occur after surgery in babies with undescended testicles. Therefore, it is important for babies with undescended testicles to undergo surgery before the age of 2.

Chromosomal abnormalities can also cause oligospermia. Certain health conditions, such as celiac disease, can also affect sperm production.

Long-term exposure to chemicals can also cause oligospermia. Exposure to substances such as paint, pesticides, and lead can affect sperm quality and quantity.

Factors such as tobacco use, obesity, depression, and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of oligospermia. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of oligospermia.

How is oligospermia diagnosed?

Oligospermia is usually diagnosed with a spermiogram. This test is used to evaluate a man's sperm count, motility, and morphology. For the test, a man typically abstains for at least three days and then ejaculates and provides a sperm sample. However, a sperm sample from 10 days ago or even just one day ago may not provide accurate results. Therefore, for definitive results, the man must wait at least three days after ejaculation and then provide a sperm sample. Above Form

How is oligospermia treated?

Treatment for oligospermia begins with identifying the underlying cause. Factors such as chemical exposure, weight, and varicocele are investigated. A treatment plan is then developed after identifying the underlying causes. If the cause of oligospermia remains undetermined, or if a significant increase in sperm count is not achieved even after correcting the underlying causes, in vitro fertilization (IVF) or alternative assisted reproductive techniques (ART) may be considered.

For example, patients with a sperm count below 5 million are directly recommended for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Overweight patients are referred to the Nutrition and Dietetics Department and encouraged to lose weight. If necessary, an endocrinologist may recommend medication or bariatric surgery. In the case of a varicocele, surgery may be considered; however, if an increase in sperm count is not achieved after surgery, options such as IVF are also considered. Smoking and alcohol cessation are also recommended, but if oligospermia levels are very low, these lifestyle changes may not lead to a significant increase in sperm count.

In addition, personal factors such as the patient's length of marriage and the age of their spouse are also taken into account in the treatment plan. Treatment options are determined based on the patient's condition and specific needs.

Can sperm count be increased in men?

Yes, sperm count can be increased in men. To achieve this, it's important to first address factors that can reduce sperm count. These factors include weight gain and varicoceles. Weight loss is crucial for overweight individuals, and surgery is crucial for varicoceles.

Additionally, avoiding chemicals if exposed, quitting bad habits such as smoking and alcohol, and correcting conditions related to hormonal medication use can also increase sperm count.

Nutritional supplements such as Coenzyme Q, folic acid, L-carnitine, zinc, and ginseng may also help increase sperm count. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using these supplements.

What should a man with a low sperm count do?

A man with a decreasing sperm count should first adopt healthy lifestyle habits. This can be beneficial by quitting smoking and alcohol, adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, and exercising regularly. Additionally, avoiding clothing that constricts the testicles and avoiding sitting for long periods of time.

However, it's important to remember that even those who lead healthy lifestyles and follow the precautions mentioned above can still experience low sperm counts. In this case, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a more detailed evaluation and to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Can you get pregnant if your sperm count is low?

Low sperm count is a significant factor in conceiving. Oligospermia is assessed as mild, moderate, or severe. However, a low sperm count can make natural conception difficult and time-consuming. Scientifically, even a very low sperm count cannot definitively guarantee infertility.

In these cases, it's common for couples to be offered assisted reproductive techniques like in vitro fertilization (IVF). These methods can increase the chances of conceiving, even with low sperm counts, and allow couples to overcome difficulties conceiving naturally. Therefore, couples are advised to begin appropriate treatment as soon as possible, considering options like IVF.