How to Diagnose Low Sperm Count

Many men have what is called a low sperm count (Oligospermia), which is a form of male infertility. A normal sperm count is 20 million/ml or more sperm per milliliter of semen. Anything less than 20 million is considered a low sperm count. There are many causes for a low sperm count such as stress, obesity, infections, genetic reasons, wearing tight-fitting jeans and underwear, taking very hot baths and being exposed to environmental pollution and toxic chemicals. Luckily, there are treatment options available for this disorder, but you must first visit your doctor for an evaluation and lab tests.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Medical examination and evaluation
• Semen analysis
• Blood tests
• Lab tests

1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor must give you a complete medical examination and evaluation along with comprehensive laboratory tests, in order to confirm that you have a low sperm count. You may have to visit your doctor several times before he can actually make a formal diagnosis.

2. Go to your scheduled appointment. Your doctor may begin by asking you a series of questions about your health status, medications you're taking and lifestyle behavior. You should answer all questions truthfully and be prepared to give specific details. Your doctor can only help you if you are honest with him.

3. Complete the sperm analysis by supplying a fresh semen sample to your doctor. This is a very important test because it verifies whether or not you have a low sperm count. Your doctor will also need a sample of your blood and urine to send to the lab for additional testing.

4. Return to the doctor's office for a follow-up visit. Your test results should be back within a week and your doctor can discuss the details with you. Your doctor will recommend the best treatment option(s) based on the lab results.

5. Go over your treatment options with your doctor. Many men can treat their condition just by making some lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, wearing loose fitting clothing, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, drinking plenty of water and taking more vitamins. Your doctor may prescribe you a "zinc" supplementation to help boost your sperm account. In addition, some men have to undergo fertility treatments or surgery to improve their condition.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to follow a well-balanced diet, with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

• Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day.

• Don't forget to take a daily vitamin.