3 tips to get pregnant with low sperm count
Low sperm count is a common fertility issue amongst men, which makes it more difficult to conceive. However, it is possible to improve your sperm count to increase your chances of a successful pregnancy. In this blog post, you can read 3 tips for getting pregnant with low sperm count and the different treatment options available.
What is low sperm count?
If your sperm ejaculate contains less than 15 million sperm cells per millilitre of semen, your sperm count is considered low and may hinder your ability to conceive naturally.
How does low sperm count affect fertility?
A low sperm count will affect your fertility negatively, as there are fewer active sperm cells per millilitre of sperm. Less active sperm cells result in a decreased chance of fertilization.
Testing your sperm count
To accurately assess sperm count, you need a semen analysis. During a semen analysis, the quantity, shape, and motility of your sperm are assessed. Based on the result, you and your doctor can proceed to plan the next step in your journey towards parenthood.
3 tips on how to get pregnant with low sperm count
Your sperm quality is highly affected by the choices you make every day and your lifestyle in general. Fortunately, it is possible to change your lifestyle and improve your sperm count. Here are three tips to increase your chances of getting pregnant with a low sperm count:
1. Exercise and sleep
Excess weight or being underweight can alter testosterone levels and decrease sperm count. Focus on regular exercise and try to maintain a normal weight.
Sleep is crucial for maintaining balanced hormone levels and a healthy lifestyle. Focus on getting at least 7 hours of quality sleep each night, to improve your fertility.
2. Diet and supplements
A nutritious diet is vital when trying to conceive. Many fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants have been linked with improved fertility. Prioritize a balanced and healthy diet where you avoid high-fat foods. Here is a list of the types of food linked to an improvement in fertility:
- Poultry
- Whole grains
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Avocados
Source: sciencedirect.com
Vitamins and supplements like Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and Zinc may also help to improve your fertility. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
3. Focus on your mental health
Often, men find it difficult to discuss male infertility and problems with low sperm count, as many see the ability to conceive as one of the most essential parts of being a man. Therefore, many men struggling with infertility feelings alone, as they are afraid to talk to others about their struggles. If you are trying to cope with male infertility, we recommend you ignore the stigma and talk to others about your challenges, as your mental health is just as important as your physical.
Treatment options for men with low sperm count
If you have tried to change your lifestyle without any results, you may need to consider treatment to help conceive. IVF and ICSI are the two most popular types of treatment for men with a low sperm count.
In vitro fertilization (IVF)
During IVF, sperm cells are placed next to the egg in a plastic container. As the sperm cells are placed closer to the egg in a controlled environment, the chances of pregnancy increases. If fertilization occurs, the embryos are incubated and then transferred to the woman's uterus.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
In ICSI, a single sperm cell is injected into the egg, bypassing potential barriers to increase chances of fertilization. This method is particularly effective for men with a low sperm count, as it only requires one healthy sperm cell per egg. ICSI is more costly than IVF and may involve additional expenses if sperm retrieval is necessary.
Sperm retrieval
Some men are diagnosed with azoospermia, where no sperm cells are present in the ejaculation. However, through sperm retrieval (TESE), where sperm cells are retrieved directly from the testicles, it may still be possible for men with azoospermia to conceive naturally. If successful, the retrieved sperm can be used in ICSI to fertilize an egg.
Artificial insemination with donor sperm
If you have tried treatments with your sperm without a positive result, you may need to consider artificial insemination with donor sperm. One of the advantages of using a sperm donor compared to adoption is that your partner maintains a genetic relation to your child. Donor sperm has enabled countless couples to realize their dreams of having a child.
Click on the button below to see the donors available in our Donor Search.
At Cryos, we are here to support you on your journey towards parenthood. Our Customer Care Team is available to answer any questions, or you can connect with others in similar situations through our Facebook group, Family Dreams.
Frequently asked questions about low sperm count
Are low sperm count and low motility the same?
No, low sperm count and low sperm motility are two different issues. Low sperm count refers to the number of sperm cells while low sperm motility is related to how well the sperm cells are able to move. Both can affect fertility.
Are there any symptoms related to low sperm count?
Yes, there are some symptoms but these are not necessarily related to low sperm count:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Infertility
- Low sex drive