Male fertility is greatly influenced by healthy sperm. A key factor in determining sperm health is sperm count, which refers to the average number of sperm present in a single sample of semen. According to the latest guidelines from the World Health Organization, a healthy sperm count is 15 million per milliliter (ml) or 39 million per sample. Conversely, a sperm count lower than 10 million per ml is considered abnormal and can result in male infertility.
Dr. Rohini, Chief Infertility & IVF Specialist, explains that sperm count is directly associated with sperm health. Before considering ways to improve sperm health, it is important to understand the markers of sperm health. These include sperm motility (the ability of the sperm to move and swim toward the egg), semen volume (the minimum volume required to transport the sperm through the female reproductive system), sperm morphology (the ideal size and shape of sperm cells in a sample), and sperm count (the concentration of sperm cells per ejaculation).
So, how can you increase your sperm count? The answer is not as complicated as one might think, and there are three main methods to consider: lifestyle changes, food and supplements, and medication in cases of low sperm count.
Regarding lifestyle changes, current lifestyle factors are a significant contributor to both male and female infertility and making small changes in one's lifestyle can lead to a happier outcome. It is advisable to refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol excessively and avoid drugs, as they can reduce healthy sperm production. Stress can also negatively impact sperm health, so a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce stress levels. Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, as being overweight or obese can lower sperm count and motility. Soy-based foods containing phytoestrogens should also be limited as an excess can reduce testosterone bonding and sperm production.
Healthy eating is key to promoting a healthy body and sperm, while exercise can raise testosterone levels and lead to improved sperm quality and increased sperm counts. Adequate sleep is also vital in maintaining good health, with restricted or excessive sleep being linked to poor semen quality.
Certain foods have been found to have a wide range of health benefits, including the ability to increase sperm counts. These include walnuts, citrus fruits, whole wheat and grains, most fish, vitamin D-enhanced milk and milk products, dark chocolate, garlic, bananas, broccoli, spinach, asparagus, and fermented nuts and seeds.
In cases of low sperm count, medication may be prescribed, depending on an individual's other health conditions and considerations. These can include clomiphene citrate oral (Serophene), Serophene oral, Gonal-f® RFF* Redi-ject® (follitropin alfa or gonal-F) or subcutaneous (under the skin) injections, antibiotics if caused by urinary or reproductive tract infection, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), letrozole or anastrozole, and exogenous androgens.
It is important to note that low sperm count is not a disease. According to Dr. Reema Sircar from Indira Fertility and IVF Center Allahbad, a low sperm count can be one of the major causes of male infertility. If the sperm count is between 5 to 10 million per ml, IUI and IVF techniques may be recommended for couples to conceive, with ICSI being preferable if the sperm count is less than 5 million in the male partner. It is worth noting that the success rate of IVF is generally higher than that of IUI.
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