If you’re facing difficulties conceiving due to a low sperm count, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans struggle with infertility, but thankfully, there are treatments available to help you achieve pregnancy. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a highly effective form of assisted reproductive technology. Learn more about IVF and how it can help men overcome infertility issues below.

What Does It Mean to Have a Low Sperm Count?

A typical ejaculation releases anywhere from 15 million to over 200 million sperm per millimeter of semen. Having a low sperm count means your semen contains fewer than 15 million sperm per millimeter. This may still seem like a lot, but only a few hundred sperm will ever reach the egg. As sperm density decreases, the chance of conception lowers.

Sperm count is measured through a semen analysis. A fertility doctor will test a sample of semen to examine the total number, structure, and movement or motility of the sperm.

If you have a low sperm count, it doesn’t necessarily mean you and your partner can’t have a baby. Healthy sperm that move normally can still fertilize an egg, but it may take more attempts. However, if there are other abnormalities noted in your semen analysis, in vitro fertilization may be the best infertility treatment option to help you conceive.

How Can IVF Help Men With Low Sperm Count?

In vitro fertilization has a high success rate, making it one of the most popular treatment options for infertility. The procedure involves collecting mature eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them in a lab, and transferring the healthiest embryos into the uterus.

If motility is an issue, IVF creates a controlled setting in a petri dish, where the sperm won’t need to travel far to the egg. The process reduces the risk of sperm losing their way in the reproductive tract and increases the chance of successful fertilization.

In cases of extremely low sperm count or other fertility issues, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be used in combination with IVF. This procedure involves isolating the healthiest sperm in a semen sample and injecting it directly into the egg. It’s a safe and effective infertility treatment for men who wish to father a child.

If you and your partner are seeking infertility treatments, Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute is here to help. This Honolulu fertility clinic provides compassionate and comprehensive solutions focused on helping you start a family. Whether you want to begin right away with in vitro fertilization or wish to plan for the future, their knowledgeable team will answer your questions and keep you informed throughout the process. Visit them online to learn more about their IVF program. To schedule a consultation, call (808) 946-2226.