What is Oligozoospermia?

Oligozoospermia is a medical condition characterized by a lower-than-normal concentration of sperm in a man's ejaculate. Specifically, it refers to a low sperm count, where the number of sperm in a semen sample is below the threshold considered necessary for fertility. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a normal sperm count as having at least 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen, although this threshold can vary slightly between different medical guidelines.

Oligozoospermia can be classified into two categories:

1. Mild Oligozoospermia: In this condition, the sperm count is lower than the normal range but still sufficient for fertilization. However, it may reduce the likelihood of conception compared to higher sperm counts.

2. Severe Oligozoospermia: In this more severe form of the condition, the sperm count is significantly below the normal range, which can greatly reduce the chances of natural conception.

Low sperm count can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal issues, such as low levels of testosterone or thyroid problems, can affect sperm production.

2. Genetic factors: Some genetic conditions can lead to reduced sperm production.

3. Varicocele: A varicocele is a swelling of the veins in the scrotum, which can impact sperm production.

4. Infections: Infections in the reproductive organs can affect sperm production and function.

5. Environmental factors: Exposure to toxins, radiation, or excessive heat can harm sperm production.

6. Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and obesity can negatively impact sperm count.

7. Medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs, can affect sperm production as a side effect.

Treatment for oligozoospermia depends on its underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In some cases, making lifestyle changes, addressing hormonal imbalances, or treating infections may help improve sperm count. In more severe cases, assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be recommended to achieve pregnancy.

If a couple is experiencing difficulty conceiving and suspects that oligozoospermia may be a contributing factor, it's advisable to consult with a fertility specialist or urologist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a semen analysis, and recommend appropriate treatment options based on the specific circumstances.