About this topic
The male sex organs are the testes. The testes make sperm. The sperm mixes with semen which exits the male body through the penis. Sperm in the semen joins with an egg in a womans body to make a baby. Sometimes, a man has a low amount of sperm, also called a low sperm count. If you have a low sperm count, you may have problems making a woman pregnant. ‚
What are the causes?
- Swollen blood vessels inside the scrotum
- Infections in the male sex organs or the urinary tubes
- Problems with semen going into the bladder instead of out through the penis
- Injury to the spinal cord
- Change in hormone levels
- Cancer of the male sex organs
- Damage to the sex organs
What can make this more likely to happen?
Conditions that are more likely to put you at a higher risk for a low sperm count include: ‚
- Taking steroids
- Using certain illegal drugs
- Chemicals
- Being overweight
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Stress
- Some infections
- Using hot tubs and saunas
What are the main signs?
- Trying to get pregnant for more than 1 year
- Problems with erection, ejaculation, or low sex drive
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
- Lump in the testicles or penis
- Very thin scalp, body, or facial hair
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor will look at your genital area and check for lumps or swelling. The doctor may check your prostate by placing a finger inside of your anus to feel the prostate. Talk with your doctor about any surgery or problems with your genitals. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have low belly pain. Your doctor may ask you questions about your sex life. The doctor may order: ‚
- Semen analysis test ¢ ˆ ’ to check how much sperm is in your semen
- Lab tests
- Ultrasound
- Testicular biopsy
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will treat the problem that is causing the low sperm count. You may need drugs or surgery. Sometimes, therapy or counseling is suggested as well. ‚
Surgery may be needed if there are problems with the tubes in your penis or scrotum. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Wear boxer shorts instead of briefs. Briefs push the testicles up against the body where the heat may affect the sperm.
- At certain times of the month, a woman has a higher chance of getting pregnant. Your doctor will talk to you about timing your sex to increase chances of pregnancy.
- Avoid using lubricants during sex.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Control hormones
- Fight an infection
- Boost sex drive
- Help with problems with your penis
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Avoid smoking and drinking too much alcohol.
- Avoid illegal drugs.
- Exercise often.
- Keep a healthy weight. Lose weight if you are too heavy.
- Avoid activities that could harm your pelvic area.
- Avoid going into hot tubs and saunas.
Where can I learn more?
American Urological Association Foundation ‚
http://www.urologyhealth.org/urology/index.cfm?article=102 ‚
Better Health Channel ‚
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Infertility_male ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/low-sperm-count/pages/introduction.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚