What Is Oligospermia and How Can It Affect You?
Normal Range and Severity
| Level | Sperm concentration (million/mL) |
|---|---|
| Within normal reference | About 16 or more |
| Mild oligospermia | About 10 to 15 |
| Moderate oligospermia | About 5 to 10 |
| Severe oligospermia | Below 5 |
| Azoospermia | No sperm found |
Doctors also check motility (movement) and morphology (shape). A low count with good motility may still allow natural pregnancy.
Does Oligospermia Cause Symptoms?
Usually the only sign is difficulty conceiving. Some men may notice swelling or a lump in the scrotum (possible varicocele), or signs of hormone problems such as low sex drive or reduced facial hair. See common symptoms of oligospermia.
Common Causes
- Varicocele: enlarged veins that raise testicular temperature
- Hormone problems: pituitary or thyroid issues, high prolactin
- Infections: including past mumps or sexually transmitted infections
- Lifestyle: smoking, obesity, alcohol, drugs, anabolic steroids
- Heat: hot workplaces, saunas, laptops on the lap
- Medicines and treatments: some medications, chemotherapy
How It Affects You
With fewer sperm, it may take longer to conceive. The emotional impact can be significant: stress, guilt or pressure within the family. Remember that fertility is a couple's journey, and both partners should be evaluated.
Diagnosis
- At least two semen analyses a few weeks apart
- Hormone tests (FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin)
- Scrotal ultrasound if needed
Treatment and What You Can Do
- Treat any cause found (varicocele, infection, hormones)
- Lifestyle: stop smoking, lose excess weight, sleep well, keep cool
- Eat sperm-friendly foods
- Assisted reproduction (IUI, IVF, ICSI) when needed
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Aksar Pooche Jane Wale Sawal (FAQ)
Oligospermia kya hai?
Jab sperm ki tadaad normal se kam ho, taqreeban 15 se 16 million per ml se kam, to isay oligospermia kehte hain.
Kya oligospermia mein baap ban sakte hain?
Haan, bohot se mard qudrati tor par ya IUI, IVF ya ICSI ki madad se baap bante hain.
Kya oligospermia theek ho sakta hai?
Agar wajah mil jaye (jaise varicocele ya smoking) to aksar behtari aati hai. Urologist se mashwara karein.
Sources: Mayo Clinic: Low sperm count · WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination of Human Semen (6th ed., 2021)