What causes a sudden decrease in sperm count?

A sudden decrease in semen volume may be caused by excessive sexual frequency, prostatitis, seminal vesiculitis, endocrine disorders, ejaculatory duct obstruction, etc.

1. Sexual frequency is too high:

Frequent ejaculation in a short period of time can lead to insufficient seminal vesicle reserves and a temporary reduction in semen volume. It takes about 72 hours for the seminal vesicles to complete semen synthesis. Having sex or masturbating multiple times a day will cause the seminal vesicles to be in a state of emptying. This situation is a physiological change, and it can return to normal in 2-3 weeks after the frequency is appropriately controlled.

2. Prostatitis:

Chronic prostatitis may affect prostatic fluid secretion, resulting in a reduction in total semen volume. Prostatic fluid accounts for about 30% of the total semen volume. Inflammation can cause glandular duct blockage or decreased secretion function. Patients are often accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination and perineal distension and pain. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed through prostatic fluid examination, and antibiotics and physical therapy are the main treatments.

3. Seminal vesiculitis:

Seminal vesicle inflammation will directly reduce the secretion of seminal vesicle fluid. Seminal vesicle fluid accounts for 60% of the total semen volume. Symptoms such as hematospermia and painful ejaculation may occur after infection. Ultrasound examination of the seminal vesicles shows enlarged glands, and treatment requires a combination of sensitive antibiotics and drugs for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. In severe cases, seminal vesiculoscopic flushing is required.

4. Endocrine disorders:

Decreased testosterone levels can affect the secretory function of accessory gonads. Pituitary disease, thyroid dysfunction, or long-term stress may cause insufficient androgen secretion, manifested by a progressive decrease in semen volume. Six items of sex hormones need to be checked, and hormone replacement therapy should be performed if necessary.

5. Ejaculatory duct obstruction:

Congenital developmental abnormalities or acquired scarring can lead to narrowing of the ejaculatory duct. In this case, the semen volume is usually less than 1 ml, and may be accompanied by a feeling of weakness in ejaculation. Transrectal ultrasound or seminal tract angiography can confirm the diagnosis. Mild obstruction can be treated with medication, while severe cases require surgical dredging.

It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule and avoid sitting for long periods of time and wearing tight pants. Daily supplements of zinc, such as oysters, nuts and vitamin E, can help maintain spermatogenesis. If the semen volume continues to be less than 1.5 ml for more than a month, or is accompanied by other abnormal symptoms, you should promptly go to the andrology department for semen analysis, reproductive system ultrasound and other examinations. Avoid taking aphrodisiac drugs on your own, as some kidney-tonifying traditional Chinese medicines may aggravate the inflammatory reaction. Moderate exercise such as squats and swimming can improve pelvic blood circulation, but it is necessary to avoid the oppression of the perineum caused by strenuous cycling.