What causes men to have less sperm?

Reduced semen volume in men may be caused by physiological factors, reproductive system infections, varicocele, abnormal hormone levels, excessive ejaculation frequency and other reasons.

1. Physiological factors:

Short-term fluctuations in semen volume are mostly related to insufficient water intake, fatigue or psychological stress. Living habits such as high temperature environment and prolonged sitting will affect the testicular spermatogenesis function. It is recommended to drink more than 2000 ml of water every day and avoid wearing tight pants. Staying up late for a long time will cause disorders of the testosterone secretion cycle, and continuous sleep should be maintained for 6-8 hours.

2. Reproductive system infection:

Inflammations such as prostatitis and seminal vesiculitis will reduce seminal plasma secretion and may be accompanied by frequent urination and perineal swelling and pain. Chronic epididymitis may cause blockage of the vas deferens, and semen bacterial culture examination is required. Urethritis caused by chlamydial infection can change the composition of semen and requires antibiotic treatment.

3. Varicocele:

Obstruction of scrotal venous return will increase the local temperature of the testicles and inhibit the activity of spermatogenic cells. The incidence rate on the left side is 85%, which may be accompanied by a feeling of scrotal swelling. Moderate or above varicose veins may cause a 40% drop in sperm density and require color Doppler ultrasound for diagnosis.

4. Abnormal hormone levels:

Insufficient gonadotropins caused by pituitary tumors will reduce sperm production, and caution should be taken when serum testosterone detection values ​​are lower than 2.8ng/ml. Hypothyroidism will prolong the spermatogenic cycle, and these patients are often accompanied by symptoms of body hair loss. Testicular microvascular disease caused by diabetes can also affect spermatogenesis.

5. Ejaculation frequency is too high:

Continuous ejaculation will deplete the seminal vesicle reserves, requiring 2-3 days to recover after each ejaculation. Frequent masturbation or sexual intercourse may reduce the volume of semen in a single shot to less than 1 ml. It is recommended to maintain an ejaculation frequency of 2-3 times a week. Abstinence for more than 7 days can cause sperm aging.

You can increase your daily intake of zinc-rich foods such as oysters and pumpkin seeds. Zinc is involved in the sperm formation process. Aerobic exercise can improve pelvic blood circulation. It is recommended to jog or swim for 30 minutes three times a week. Avoid soaking in hot springs or using electric blankets for long periods of time. Maintaining the scrotal temperature at 35°C is optimal for sperm production. If the semen volume continues to be less than 1.5 ml or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to go to the andrology department for systematic examinations such as routine semen and six sex hormones. Men who are preparing for pregnancy should start adjusting their lifestyle 3 months in advance. The sperm production cycle is about 72-90 days.