10 Major Reasons Of Low Sperm Count In Men

Infertility among men is on the rise today, with unhealthy lifestyles, stress, and improper diets being some of the primary contributors to low sperm count. While this condition does not affect sexual activity, it can make conception challenging. Studies reveal that 1 in 10 couples face fertility issues, and in many cases, the cause is a low sperm count in men. Research also suggests that at least 40 million sperm per ejaculation are needed for conception to occur.

Low sperm count is increasingly seen in younger men, including those in their early 30s. While medical factors such as birth defects or illnesses can impact sperm production, the predominant cause is often an unhealthy lifestyle. This article delves into the common factors leading to low sperm count, aside from medical causes such as infections, ejaculation problems, varicocele, antibodies attacking sperm, tumors, undescended testicles, hormone imbalances, chromosome defects, celiac disease, prior surgeries, and certain medications (e.g., testosterone replacement therapy, long-term anabolic steroids, chemotherapy, and specific antifungal or antibiotic drugs).

Common Factors Affecting Sperm Count:

# Obesity

The rise in urbanization and poor lifestyle choices has increased the prevalence of obesity, which is linked to reduced sexual gland function. In men, obesity is associated with decreased sperm count and testicular function due to hormonal imbalances.

# Alcohol Consumption

Chronic alcohol abuse has been connected to infertility. Excessive drinking reduces sperm quality by interfering with the body’s ability to absorb zinc, a crucial mineral for sperm cell production.

# Drug Use

Substance abuse significantly affects sperm count. Studies show that about 33% of men using drugs experience reduced sperm counts. Opiates like oxycontin and fentanyl disrupt hormone levels and may lead to DNA damage.

# Stress

High stress levels disrupt hormone production necessary for sperm formation. Psychological stress negatively impacts sperm concentration, appearance, and fertility potential.

# Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, often linked to obesity, can cause low sperm count by reducing testosterone levels. While it doesn’t affect sperm motility, it can still contribute to infertility.

# Tight Underwear

Wearing tight-fitting briefs for extended periods may overheat the testes, potentially lowering sperm count. Switching to looser-fitting boxers may be beneficial.

# Mobile Phone Usage

Men who use mobile phones for over four hours daily often experience lower sperm counts. Carrying phones in pockets exposes the testes to radiation, which negatively impacts sperm production.

# Hot Tub Baths

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, such as during hot tub baths, can harm sperm production. The testes need to remain cooler than the rest of the body to produce healthy sperm, and excessive heat can disrupt this balance.

# Soy Products

Consuming large amounts of soy products may lower sperm count. Isoflavones in soy can interfere with hormonal signals necessary for sperm production.

# Steroid Use

Steroids used for muscle building can harm reproductive health by shrinking testicles and drastically reducing sperm production.