Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia) Symptoms, Causes & Ayurvedic Treatment

Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia) Symptoms, Causes & Ayurvedic Treatment

Low sperm count, commonly known as oligospermia, is a condition when men produce less sperm than normal. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a low sperm count as less than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.

 An outline of this condition's signs, causes, and Ayurvedic remedies is provided below:

Symptoms of Low Sperm Count:

  • Difficulty in conceiving: The most obvious sign of oligospermia is the inability to conceive a child despite regular unprotected intercourse over some time (usually one year or more).
  • Reduced body or facial hair: hormonal problems can affect sperm production and cause hair growth changes.
  • Pain or swelling in the testicles: Sometimes, low sperm count is accompanied by testicular pain or swelling, which can indicate underlying issues like varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum).
  • Erectile dysfunction: Men with low sperm counts are unable to maintain an erection, although this is not naturally a visible clue.
Ayurvedic Treatment For Low Sperm Count

Causes of Low Sperm Counts:

  • Varicocele: A condition in which the blood vessels in the scrotum expand, which causes reduced sperm production.
  • Infections: Infections can affect sperm production or sperm health, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other urogenital infections.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Problems with the thyroid, adrenal glands, or pituitary gland can interfere with sperm production.
  • Lifestyle factors: Stress, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, drug use, poor diet, and lack of physical activity can all contribute to a reduced sperm count.
  • Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, chemicals, or high temperatures (e.g., hot tubs, tight clothing) can lower sperm count.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Low Sperm Count:

India's traditional medical system, Ayurveda, approaches sexual health and other aspects of health holistically. Ayurvedic treatment for low sperm count focuses on balancing the body's tridoshas (vata, pitta, and kapha), rejuvenating reproductive tissues, and strengthening overall health.

1. Dietary Changes:

  • Foods rich in antioxidants, such as pomegranates, berries, and green leafy vegetables, can help protect sperm from damage.
  • To encourage fertility, Ayurveda suggests foods like ghee (clarified butter), walnuts, saffron, and almonds that are thought to be aphrodisiacs.
  • Avoid eating spicy, oily, and processed foods. These can cause imbalance and negatively affect sperm production.
Dietary Changes

2. Herbal Remedies:

  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): It is known for its adaptogenic properties. Ashwagandha is thought to improve sperm count and motility by reducing stress and enhancing vitality.
  • Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): This herb is believed to power up the reproductive system and improve sperm quality and quantity.
  • Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris): Gokshura is used to enhance sexual health and vitality, and it’s believed to help with sperm production.
  • Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum): This herb is often used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve male reproductive health, increase sperm count, and enhance overall vitality.

3. Yoga and Meditation:

  • Pranayama (breathing exercises): Breathing exercises such as Kapalbhati and Anulom Vilom may help reduce stress and boost circulation and overall health, all of which support overall vitality.
  • Yoga poses: Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand), Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend), and Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose) facilitate greater blood flow to the pelvic region and improve reproductive health.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments:

  • Manage stress: Stress can have a negative impact on sperm counts. Meditation, mindfulness, and regular exercise can all assist in managing stress.
  • Toxin prevention: Ensuring reproductive health requires limiting exposure to toxic substances, toxins, and pesticides.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Both overweight and underweight could affect sperm count. A nutritious diet and regular physical activity can help you stay at your ideal weight.

Additional Ayurvedic Treatments:

  • Vajikarana therapy is a specialty area of Ayurveda that aims to enhance sexual and reproductive health. It uses a combination of herbs, oils, and massages to enhance reproductive function.

Conclusion:

While Ayurvedic medicines can help with sperm count and overall reproductive health, it's vital to see a doctor for a complete diagnosis and treatment plan. A doctor can help you identify the root cause of low sperm count and guide you to the correct medical treatment, which may be combined with Ayurvedic therapies for a more complete approach to restoring fertility.

FAQs

1. What is considered a low sperm count?

According to the World Health Organization, low sperm count (oligospermia) refers to a sperm count below 15 million per milliliter of semen.

2. What are the common symptoms of low sperm count?

Common symptoms include issues conceiving, lack of body or facial hair (due to hormonal defects), painful testicles or swelling, and, in some cases, erectile dysfunction.

3. What are the major causes of low sperm count?

This condition, infections, hormonal problems, lifestyle choices (smoking, drinking, stress, unsafe food), and external factors (toxins, heat exposure) all cause low sperm count.

4. Can Ayurvedic medicine improve sperm count?

Yes, Ayurveda gives a complete strategy for raising sperm count by the use of natural remedies like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Gokshura, and Safed Musli, together with dietary, yoga, and changes in lifestyle.

5. How does Ashwagandha help in increasing sperm count?

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that reduces stress, enhances testosterone levels, and improves sperm count and motility.

6. Are there any foods to avoid for better sperm health?

Yes, Ayurveda suggests avoiding spicy, oily, and processed foods because they may cause imbalances in the human body and lower sperm production.

Reviewed By

Dr. Sapna Kangotra

Senior Ayurveda Doctor

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