Abnormal sperm has a direct effect on pregnancy rates. Here’s an overview of how azoospermia, oligospermia, and asthenospermia and other sperm health problems affect pregnancy. Low sperm count is one of the main causes of fertility issues in couples experiencing difficulty when trying to get pregnant.

What is Azoospermia?

Azoospermia is the complete absence of sperm in a semen sample, due to a failure in sperm production or a physical obstruction. If an obstruction is causing the sperm problem (obstructive azoospermia), it may be treated in some cases with surgical procedures. If a spermanalysis or a sperm test indicates azoospermia, your doctor will likely pursue follow up tests to determine the cause.

The causes of no sperm or azoospermia could be genetic, lifestyle, illness, or even prescription medications.

What is Oligospermia?

Oligospermia is low sperm count – too few sperm are present in a sample. The World Health Organization has standardized “20 million sperm per/mL” as the threshold for a “normal” or “healthy” sperm count. Depending on how low the sperm count is, oligospermia can in some cases be treated by scheduling intercourse.