If he has a low sperm count, it decreases the likelihood that one of his sperm will fertilise your egg. A low sperm count indicates that his sperm count is lower than normal. A typical sperm count ranges from 15 million to over 200 million sperm per millilitre of semen. A man's sperm count of less than 15 million is considered low.
Causes of Low Sperm Count
Sometimes the cause of a low sperm count is unknown. However, some plausible causes include:
- Hormone imbalances
- Trauma to the testicles (for example, sports injuries)
- Undescended testicles (even those corrected early)
- A varicocele is an expansion of the veins within the scrotum, similar to varicose veins in the legs.
- Orchitis (inflammation of one or both testicles, most often caused by infection).
- Some sexually transmitted illnesses.
- Taking specific medications
- Certain previous operations
- Environmental factors, such as exposure to hazardous chemicals or radiation.
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, drug use (including marijuana), and obesity
Symptoms Of Low Sperm Count
Aside from infertility, there may be no other indicators of low sperm count in a male. However, some men may have the following signs of low sperm count:- A decrease in facial or body hair (which may indicate a hormonal or chromosomal imbalance or malfunction)
- Pain, swelling, or a bump on or around the testicles
How To Increase Sperm Count Naturally?
The good news is that a low sperm count does not necessarily indicate infertility in men. Furthermore, there are things he can take to boost his sperm count and raise the likelihood of the two of you meeting your baby-making goal. Follow these strategies to naturally increase the sperm count:Eat nutrient-dense foods
Men's nutritional needs will also be challenged during the process; they require fertility-boosting meals as well. According to Dr Vikas Yadav, men trying to conceive require high levels of vitamins C and E, zinc, and folic acid, which are primarily found in natural foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein.Antioxidant-rich diets, such as walnuts (along with fruits and vegetables), have been demonstrated to improve sperm quality. Furthermore, deficits in vitamins C, D, E, zinc, selenium, folic acid, and good fats like omega-3 fatty acids might impair sperm production and quality.
However, some meals are harmful to sperm. Diets high in saturated fats (such as fried foods, fatty or processed meats, and baked products) can harm male fertility. According to research, a high intake of soy meals is connected with reduced sperm concentration.
So, for healthy sperm, a man should have a healthy, well-balanced diet and take a multivitamin every day. He should also make an effort to prepare and consume nutritious meals regularly.
Reduce stress
Stress can interfere with sperm production, so expectant fathers must remember to relax.He should obtain plenty of sleep and exercise regularly. He should also attempt some relaxing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing — or get a massage.
Turn the heat off
While you're trying to conceive, your partner should keep his lower regions chilly. Saunas, steam rooms, long, hot baths and hot tubs might temporarily boost your man's body temperature, reducing his sperm count and quality.Your partner should avoid all of the heat, including electric blankets, which are also prohibited when trying to conceive.
Stop smoking and drinking
Cigarettes and recreational substances are associated with reduced sperm counts. Heavy alcohol consumption can also diminish men's numbers. The combination of these behaviours is especially detrimental to male fertility.Furthermore, research reveals that males who smoke have decreased sex desires and engage in less frequent intercourse. In addition, smoking, recreational drugs, and alcohol can all affect male desire and sexual function.
His best hope is to significantly reduce or eliminate all of these. (Secondhand smoke is also not permitted when you are expecting a child together because it can endanger both the pregnancy and the infant.)
Have sex regularly
According to male fertility research, if your partner has a normal sperm count, having intercourse every one to two days increases your chances of conceiving. If your partner's sperm count is low, you should have sex every two days or so.Indeed, extended abstinence has little positive effect on conception and can reduce a couple's chances of having a child, even for men with low sperm counts.
While holding back increases the amount of sperm, abstinence for more than a day reduces sperm motility and appearance.
On the other hand, having too much sex (say, more than once a day) will not increase your odds of having a baby. That's because ejaculating more than once a day won't allow him to renew his sperm — and you'll need a steady supply every time.
Observe his weight
Women who are overweight or obese may take longer to conceive than women who are within the ideal weight range, and evidence indicates that overweight men are also more likely to have reproductive issues.One study revealed that a 40 kg increase in a man's weight could raise his chances of infertility by around 10%. Men who tilt the scales too much in the opposite direction may also have an issue.
A very low BMI (less than 20) can impair sperm quality and concentration. So, attempt to maintain a healthy, steady weight for maximum baby-making potential.
Avoid improper compounds
Dads-to-be should aim to prevent or limit their exposure to dangerous chemicals such as lead, pesticides, and other pollutants prevalent in some industrial workplaces, which can interfere with a healthy conception.If you or your partner must work with hazardous chemicals, there are certain steps you may take to decrease your exposure to these substances:
- When working with dangerous substances, always wear gloves, protective gear, and a respirator.
- Avoid skin contact with the substances
- Wash your hands before eating or drinking
- Change out of your work clothing and shoes and wash your hands with soap and water before returning home to reduce the possibility of carrying harmful substances into the house.
- Shower at home as quickly as possible
- Wash work clothing separately from normal laundry
Have a preconception checkup
Would-be fathers, like future mothers-to-be, should consult their doctor.During the preconception appointment, the doctor can confirm that any chronic illnesses are under control. They should also talk about any medications he's taking and how they can affect fertility, his family history, whether genetic testing is necessary, and any lifestyle decisions that might influence conception or pregnancy.
To avoid spreading illnesses such as the flu or chickenpox to the mother during pregnancy (or to the baby after birth), the doctor will also get him up to date on any necessary vaccinations.
Keep laptops at your desk
Research has discovered that males who use a laptop on their laps have lower sperm counts, possibly because the heat from the computer raises the temperature of the testes, lowering sperm count. This means he should type on a desk or tray rather than on his lap.Have a break from biking
Avid cyclists who spend more than a few hours each week in the saddle may wish to reduce their riding time, at least until the process is complete. When stressed, those tests can be difficult to perform appropriately. If you or your partner are concerned that he has a low sperm count, speak with your doctor. Also, try not to worry too much. Remember, a low sperm count does not indicate infertility. With a few lifestyle modifications, he may be able to increase his numbers—and your chances of conceiving.
Infertility is relatively prevalent and affects a large number of people worldwide.
If you're having reproductive problems, one thing you may do is prioritise activities that benefit your overall health. Many of the suggestions made above are essential components of a health-promoting lifestyle.
There is no surefire solution, but if vitamin shortages or low testosterone levels are major problems, following lifestyle changes may help.
FAQs on Ways to Increase Sperm Count Naturally
- What is the best fruit for sperm?
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are not only pleasant, but they also have numerous reproductive benefits. These fruits are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which protect sperm cells from free radical damage, enhancing their quality and motility. - What drinks enhance sperm count?
Oranges and pomegranate juice provide significant levels of antioxidants and vitamins. Oranges contain vitamin C, which has been demonstrated to boost sperm motility and count, as well as sperm morphology and overall health.
