Sperm Count For Pregnancy

As a couple, you start working on your family expansion plan after enjoying your married life for a few months or years. You decide to see a fertility or IVF doctor when your effort to get pregnant is not helpful to you. At the clinic, the doctor asks you to have a fertility assessment after interacting with both of you. During the assessment, the doctor focuses on sperm count and motility mentioned on your semen analysis report. As a couple, you should know all about sperm count. For this, keep reading this post. 

What is Sperm Count?

Sperm count is a measure of the number of sperm present in a man's semen. A low sperm count, also known as oligospermia, can make it challenging to conceive a child. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a normal sperm count as having at least 15 million sperm per millilitre (ml) of semen. However, some fertility experts suggest that a count of at least 40 million per ejaculation is ideal for optimal fertility.

How is Sperm Count Measured?

Sperm count is typically measured through a semen analysis. A semen analysis is a laboratory test that evaluates the quality and quantity of a man's semen and sperm. During a semen analysis, a man is required to provide a semen sample by masturbating into a sterile container or using a special condom during intercourse.

The sample is then analysed under a microscope to determine the number of sperm, their motility, and their morphology (shape). The results of the semen analysis provide information on the man's fertility potential, and it helps the doctor determine if there are any underlying issues that may be affecting fertility.

How Many Times Should Sperm Count be Checked?

When a couple is trying to conceive, it is important to ensure that the man's sperm count is normal. Ideally, a semen analysis should be performed at least twice, and the tests should be conducted at least one month apart. This is because sperm count can fluctuate from day-to-day and from week-to-week, so multiple tests are necessary to get an accurate picture of the man's fertility potential.

If the first semen analysis shows a low sperm count or abnormal sperm, the doctor may recommend a second analysis to confirm the results. The doctor may also suggest lifestyle changes or medical interventions to help improve sperm count or quality.

Factors that Affect Sperm Count in Males

There are several factors that can affect sperm count and quality. The factors are as follows:

• Age - As men age, their sperm count and quality may decline.
• Lifestyle - Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use, can all have a negative impact on sperm count and quality.
• Medical conditions - Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, varicocele, and infections, can affect sperm production.
• Medications - Some medications can also have a negative impact on sperm count and quality, such as steroids and chemotherapy drugs.
• Environmental factors - Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides, lead, and other chemicals, can also affect sperm count and quality.

Improving Sperm Count

If a man's sperm count is low, there are several steps he can take to improve his fertility potential. These steps may include:

• Lifestyle changes - Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and avoiding drugs can all help improve sperm count and quality.
• Dietary changes - Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can also help improve sperm count and quality.
• Exercise - Regular exercise can improve overall health and help boost sperm count and quality.
• Medications - In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help improve sperm count and quality.
• Surgery - In cases where there is an underlying medical condition, such as a varicocele, surgery may be recommended to improve sperm count.

In conclusion, sperm count is an essential aspect of male fertility, and it is important to ensure that the man has an adequate number of healthy sperm. Enough sperm count with sound motility can help you make your female partner pregnant.