What Causes Low Sperm Count?

Have you gone through fertility testing and find that you have low sperm count? Then it is essential to understand what low sperm count is.

This is the most leading cause of male infertility. Probably you have many doubts on what causes low sperm count and how to counteract this issue.

Here are various possible factors that lead to low sperm count:

1. Food and your weight

Your eating habits and your body weight can greatly affect your sperm count and quality.

Deficiency in vitamin C, zinc, folate and selenium can cause low sperm count. If these are the causes of low sperm count, then you should undergo physical examination and blood test.

Obesity is also a major factor for low sperm count. So, avoid binge eating and keep your weight under control and do regular workouts.

2. Smoking and drug abuse

Smoking and drugs like marijuana and cocaine can all affect sperm quality and lead to low sperm count. It is proven that the use of marijuana and cocaine can reduce your sperm count by as much as 50%. Marijuana lowers sperm movement and causes its ability to combine with egg less effective.

Not only smoking affects sperm count, also it hurts sperm lifespan and motility. Smoking keeps your fetus at risk for various genetic problems. A research conducted on smokers proved that they have lower sex drive and reduced sexual activity.

3. Genes

Much of our health system depends on genes. Genetic factors like Klinefelter syndrome, Kartagener syndrome and cystic fibrosis can cause low sperm count. You should discuss with your doctor about any issues that affect your sperm count.

4. Environmental factors

There are some locations that can keep you at a risk of low sperm count. Exposure to chemicals, toxins and infections can affect your sperm quality and quantity. Great exposure to metals like arsenic, cadmium and lead can also affect your sperm production. X-rays and radiation exposure can damage your sperm count.

Heavy exposure to heat can also lead to low sperm count. This may happen at your work place, hot Jacuzzi or sauna use, or high fever can affect sperm production.

5. Age

According researchers, men under 39 have about 60% of fertilization rates and men over 39 have slightly over 50% of fertilization rates.

6. Bike riding

For many of you, it is very surprising to hear that extensive bike riding can affect your sperm production. Bicycle riding can be linked to low sperm count and impotence. Pressure due to the bike seat can damage nerves and blood vessels that are essential for erection.

7. Other life styles factors

Emotional and physical stress can inhibit sperm count. Stress affects the hormone GnRH and hence leads to low sperm count. Usage of lubricants like oils, Vaselines or spermicides can also limit your sperm count.