What are the common causes of too little semen?

Low sperm count may be caused by excessive sexual frequency, long-term mental stress, varicocele, prostatitis, endocrine disorders, etc.

1. Sexual frequency is too high:

Frequent ejaculation in a short period of time will lead to insufficient seminal vesicle reserves and a significant reduction in the volume of each ejaculation. It takes 48-72 hours for male seminal vesicles to complete semen regeneration. It is recommended to reasonably control the frequency of sexual intercourse, preferably 2-3 times a week. Long-term high-frequency ejaculation may also cause symptoms of kidney deficiency such as soreness in the waist and knees, and lack of concentration.

2. Long-term mental stress:

Continuous anxiety and stress can inhibit the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, affect the release of gonadotropin, resulting in decreased testosterone levels and reduced semen secretion. Clinically, it is common in men with high work pressure and depression, and may be accompanied by loss of sexual desire and erectile dysfunction.

3. Varicocele:

Obstruction of scrotal venous return will lead to an increase in local testicular temperature and affect the function of the seminiferous epithelium. The semen volume of such patients is often less than 1.5 ml, and the sperm density and motility are reduced. Physical examination shows vermiform varicose veins on the scrotal surface, which require high spermatic vein ligation.

4. Prostatitis:

Chronic prostatitis will reduce the secretion of prostatic fluid, which accounts for 30% of the total semen volume. In addition to reduced sperm volume, patients may also experience frequent urination, perineal swelling and pain, and increased leukocytes may be seen in semen examination. Levofloxacin, tamsulosin and other drugs can be used to improve symptoms.

5. Endocrine disorders:

Diseases such as pituitary tumors and thyroid dysfunction can lead to disordered secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, directly affecting the secretory functions of the seminal vesicles and prostate. Such patients need to undergo six sex hormone tests and, if necessary, supplement chorionic gonadotropin to regulate endocrine.

It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule, avoid sitting for long periods of time and wearing tight pants, and do aerobic exercise such as jogging and swimming 3-4 times a week. You can eat more foods rich in zinc and selenium such as oysters, walnuts, and tomatoes, and limit alcohol and spicy stimuli. If the semen volume continues to be less than 1 ml for more than three months, or is accompanied by symptoms such as pain during ejaculation or hematospermia, it is necessary to promptly go to the men's department for routine semen examination, scrotal color ultrasound and other examinations.