What Causes a Low Sperm Count?
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Introduction
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Low sperm count, also known as oligospermia, is one of the many disorders that can be linked to infertility. According to the Mayo Clinic, although it only takes one sperm to fertilize a female egg, the chances of that occurring are very small. This means the more sperm deposited during a single session of intercourse, the better chances that the female will become pregnant. If you suspect a low sperm count may be behind your difficulties in conceiving a child, there are a few causes that could be behind the problem.
Production
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One of the first common causes for a low sperm count is simply the inability to produce large amounts of sperm. One reason production of sperm can be limited is by a genetic disorder, such as Klinefelter's syndrome. Another reason sperm production may be limited could be a issue with the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is responsible for initiating the process of creating sperm in the testicles.
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Damaged Ducts
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Low sperm count can also happen when physical damage occurs to the sperm ducts that connect the testicles to the penis. Damage can occur through a variety of reasons including blunt force trauma, recent surgery or infection.
Antibodies
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Certain antibodies may also play a role in a low sperm count. Some man have what are know as anti-sperm antibodies. These antibodies occur as a malfunction of the immune system. Anti-sperm antibodies are antibodies that mistake sperm for foreign invaders and destroy them before they can exit the body.
Varicocele
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A low sperm count can also be caused by a varicocele. A varicocele occurs when a vein inside the scrotum becomes swollen. The swollen vein prevents the male from being able to produce sperm. According to the Mayo Clinic, a varicocele usually can be fixed through minor corrective surgery.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Gilberto Santa Rosa: Wikimedia.org
