Male fertility is influenced by sperm count, motility, and morphology. A low sperm count (oligospermia) can significantly reduce the chances of conception. Multiple factors contribute to low sperm count, many of which are modifiable.

Key Causes of Low Sperm Count:

• Lifestyle Factors:Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and drug use negatively affect sperm production and quality.
• Environmental Toxins:Exposure to pesticides and endocrine disruptors like bisphenol A (BPA) can impair hormonal balance and damage sperm DNA.
• Hormonal Imbalances:Disorders affecting the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, or testicles can reduce testosterone and sperm production.
• Medical Conditions: Infections, varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum), and genetic abnormalities can impair sperm production.
• Medications and Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, and some medications can temporarily or permanently reduce sperm count.

Impact of Obesity

Obesity is strongly linked to reduced sperm concentration and motility through hormonal disruptions, including lower testosterone and higher estrogen levels.

Fat tissue produces aromatase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen, further impairing fertility.

Improving Sperm Health

Lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding exposure to toxins can improve sperm parameters. Consulting healthcare providers for hormonal or medical evaluation is also advised.