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Having healthy sperm is vital for a couple’s chances of having children, and in most cases, low sperm count and motility are not often defected until attempts are made at having children. Statistics show that about 15–20% of couples around the world face fertility issues. From that number, around 30-40% face infertility due to issues like sperm motility, while another 20% is a result of both female and male factors.
Due to the nature and regularity of this issue, most men are often left wondering how they can improve their sperm count and boost motility. In this article, we discuss everything you need to know.
Low sperm count describes a situation where the fluid or semen ejaculated by a man during orgasm has fewer sperm than the normal amount. Ideally, a man’s sperm count can be considered low if it’s less than 15 million sperm in each milliliter of semen. This condition is also known as oligospermia. However, if there’s a total absence of sperm, it’s called azoospermia.
On the other hand, sperm motility is used to describe how well the sperm travels or moves. When there’s a slow or zero progressive motility issue, it can negatively affect the chances of fertility.
There are varying issues relating to sperm quality, like its shape, movement, motility, or function. However, the significant causes of low sperm count aren’t easily identified but can include and are not limited to the following:
Low sperm count and motility can be due to a number of medical treatments and health issues, including:
Sperm motility and count can also be affected by certain environmental factors such as:
Some lifestyle activities such as drug and alcohol use and tobacco smoking can affect sperm count and motility. Occupations like welding and truck driving can also cause this condition. Finally, health conditions like emotional stress, depression, and obesity can also impair sperm count and motility.
Below, we look at some scientifically-backed ways to improve low sperm count and motility.
Also known as D-AA, D-aspartic acid is one of the most common remedies for sperm count increase. It’s a type of amino acid often sold as a dietary supplement. D-aspartic acid is commonly found in the testicles, sperm cells, and semen. A 2012 study showed that taking around 2.66 grams of D-aspartic acid for three months can increase sperm motility and count by 100%.
Oxidative stress — a condition whereby the body’s ROS (reactive oxygen species) reaches a dangerous level — has been shown to cause lower sperm quality and motility. As a result, evidence gathered from studies shows that taking antioxidant supplements, specifically those rich in vitamin C, can be a helpful remedy for low sperm count and motility.
Additionally, some research has linked low vitamin D levels with low testosterone resulting in inefficient sperm count and poor motility. A research review from 2020 discovered that vitamin D plays a somewhat significant role in prostate and testicular functions. However, since more research is needed here, it’s best to first consult a medical expert.
Active research showed that regularly engaging in physical activities can help boost the quality of semen. However, the result from intensity levels and how long the physical activities should last varies. A 2017 research showed that HIT or high-intensity training might have a more positive effect on semen quality. However, a 2023 study review showed that engaging in too much exercise might have a negative effect on semen quality. So, if you’re considering this option, it’s best to first speak with your healthcare professional.
It’s difficult to get into the mood and perform well when feeling stressed. Studies have shown that burnout and stress are linked with erectile dysfunction and low sexual performance and satisfaction. Stress could also cause poor sperm quality. This might be as a result of cortisol which increases when an individual experiences prolonged stress. Try reducing stress levels by meditating, taking a walk, exercising, and taking out time to relax and unwind with friends.
Several research studies have shown that certain supplements rich in specific ingredients can help improve low sperm count and motility. Below are some of these ingredients:
Low sperm count and motility are peculiar issues among couples trying to have a baby. While it might be frustrating to experience, certain lifestyle changes and medical remedies can solve the problem. If you’re experiencing testosterone issues, you can check out our testosterone boosters for the best supplement options to use.
Some lifestyle changes and activities can help to quickly improve sperm motility. Some of them include avoiding processed foods, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, getting enough sleep, regularly exercising, and wearing loose cotton.
Using anabolic steroids over an extended period often results in low sperm count and motility. Additionally, drugs like cocaine and cannabis can also produce the same effect. Varicocele has also been linked as a cause of low sperm motility.
While there are several medicine to increase sperm count and motility, the best is always decided by your doctor. They may prescribe receptor blocker for estrogen.
Men experiencing low sperm count and motility are often recommended to have unprotected sex devoid of contraception every two days to increase the chances of having a baby.
