Low sperm count means there are fewer sperm in semen than the healthy range, which can make pregnancy take longer but does not always mean infertility. The good news is that many causes are reversible, and with the right plan, sperm health often improves. This guide explains low sperm count in clear, simple words so you can take confident next steps with Dr. Nagi.

What is low sperm count?
Low sperm count (often called oligospermia) is usually reported when a lab finds fewer than about 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. One low test is not enough to judge because sperm numbers can change with time, stress, sleep, illness, and lifestyle. Doctors often suggest two semen tests, a few weeks apart, to get a true picture. Remember, fertility is not only about count—sperm movement (motility), shape (morphology), semen volume, timing of intercourse, and the female partner’s age and health also matter.

Common signs and when to check
Many men have no obvious signs. Low sperm count is often found during fertility testing after months of trying to conceive. Some men may notice low sex drive, erection problems, pain or swelling in the scrotum, a lump, or less facial/body hair if hormones are low. Speak to a doctor if:

• You have tried for pregnancy for 12 months (or 6 months if the female partner is 35+).
  
  

• You have pain, swelling, a lump, past testicular injury, undescended testis, chemo or radiation history.
  
  

• You want a faster plan and clear timelines for family planning.
  
  

Main causes of low sperm count

• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, heavy alcohol use, recreational drugs, anabolic steroids, obesity, poor sleep, high stress, and low physical activity can reduce sperm quality.
  
  

• Heat and pressure: Hot tubs or saunas, tight synthetic underwear, hot work settings, long cycling without breaks, or placing a laptop on the lap can raise scrotal temperature and harm sperm production.
  
  

• Medical conditions: Varicocele (enlarged scrotal veins), infections (including STIs), undescended testicle, mumps after puberty, groin injuries, and certain hernia or pelvic surgeries.
  
  

• Hormone issues: Low testosterone from testicular or pituitary problems, high prolactin, and thyroid disorders can affect sperm production.
  
  

• Environmental exposures: Pesticides, heavy metals, solvents, and radiation may harm sperm over time.
  
  

• Medicines and treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, testosterone therapy, and some drugs (for example, certain antifungals, antibiotics, finasteride) can lower sperm count—sometimes temporarily, sometimes longer.
  
  

How doctors diagnose low sperm count

• Semen analysis (usually two tests): Provide a sample after 2–5 days of no ejaculation; repeat after 2–3 weeks to confirm results. The report includes count, motility, morphology, and volume.
  
  

• Physical exam and scrotal ultrasound: Check for varicocele or structural problems that can affect sperm production.
  
  

• Blood tests: FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin, and thyroid levels help find hormone causes.
  
  

• Infection tests: Urine or semen tests if infection is suspected.
  
  

• Genetic tests: Considered when counts are very low or zero, or when a genetic cause is likely.
  
  

Treatment options that help

• Varicocele repair: Microsurgery can improve semen numbers and natural pregnancy chances in selected men with a clear varicocele and abnormal semen results.
  
  

• Treat infections: If a bacterial infection is found, targeted antibiotics are used, followed by a repeat semen test to measure recovery.
  
  

• Correct hormones: Treat thyroid disease, lower high prolactin, and manage specific forms of low testosterone without using contraceptive‑level testosterone that can shut down sperm production.
  
  

• Review medicines: Avoid anabolic steroids; discuss safer alternatives if a current drug impacts sperm.
  
  

• Assisted reproduction:
  
  

• IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) for mild to moderate male factor when motility is fair.
  
  

• IVF with ICSI (injecting one sperm directly into the egg) for very low counts or poor motility/shape, or when time is limited.
  
  

• Sperm retrieval procedures: For blocked ducts or very low/absent sperm in semen, techniques like TESA/TESE/micro‑TESE can collect sperm for IVF‑ICSI.
  
  

Daily steps that support sperm health

• Quit smoking; limit alcohol; avoid recreational drugs and anabolic steroids.
  
  

• Maintain a healthy weight with brisk walking and simple strength exercises most days.
  
  

• Reduce heat: Wear breathable cotton underwear; avoid hot tubs and very hot baths; keep laptops off the lap; take breaks during long cycling.
  
  

• Sleep 7–8 hours: Good sleep supports testosterone and steady sperm production.
  
  

• Manage stress: Short daily breathing practice, mindfulness, prayer, or relaxing hobbies help lower stress hormones.
  
  

• Time intercourse: Aim for the partner’s fertile window; use sperm‑friendly lubricants if needed.
  
  

Food and nutrition tips

• Antioxidants: Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds provide vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium that help protect sperm from damage.
  
  

• Zinc and folate: Important for sperm formation—found in legumes, whole grains, seeds, eggs, seafood, and lean meats.
  
  

• Omega‑3 fats: Fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed support sperm cell membranes.
  
  

• Whole‑food pattern: Focus on colorful produce, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats; reduce ultra‑processed foods and extra sugar.
  
  

Simple answers to common questions

• Can low sperm count improve? Yes. Treating causes like varicocele or infections, reviewing medicines, improving sleep, weight, and stress can help many men.
  
  

• How long before results change? Sperm take about 2–3 months to mature, so recheck after that time for fair comparison.
  
  

• Can natural pregnancy still happen? Often yes, especially when other factors are good; if not, IUI or IVF‑ICSI can raise chances.
  
  

• Should supplements be used? Only with medical advice; test first and correct proven deficiencies rather than guessing.
  
  

When to meet a specialist

• You have been trying for 12 months (6 months if the partner is 35+).
  
  

• You have very low counts or red flags such as a scrotal lump, swelling, pain, past chemo/radiation, undescended testis, or signs of hormone problems.
  
  

• You prefer a faster, clearer plan toward pregnancy with timelines and next steps.
  
  

Care with Dr. Nagi
Expect a private, respectful visit, a focused exam, and a clear plan that fits your goals. Most men start with two semen tests and key hormone labs. Next steps may include lifestyle changes, targeted treatments (for example, varicocele repair or infection care), or assisted options (IUI/IVF‑ICSI). With the right plan and timing, many couples move from testing to pregnancy with confidence.

If you want clear answers and a personalized path, book a confidential consult with best sexologist in Ambala - Dr. Nagi for complete low sperm count evaluation and step‑by‑step treatment guidance.