Oligospermia
Oligospermia (also oligozoospermia) is a suboptimal concentration of spermatozoa in the ejaculate. Historically defined as fewer than 20 million sperm per milliliter, the WHO 2010 and 2021 reference ranges revised the threshold to fewer than 15 million per milliliter, representing the fifth centile of fertile men. Oligospermia is among the most common findings in male-factor infertility. It frequently coexists with reduced motility (asthenospermia) and abnormal morphology (teratospermia); the combined finding is oligoasthenoteratospermia (OAT).
Underlying causes include varicocele, hypogonadotropic and hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, cryptorchidism, infection, environmental toxin exposure, heat exposure, oxidative stress, and idiopathic factors. In Restorative Reproductive Medicine, oligospermia is treated by addressing its root cause rather than bypassing it. Varicocelectomy, lifestyle modification, antioxidant supplementation, endocrine support for hypogonadism, and other pharmacologic interventions directed at the identified etiology form the foundation of the restorative approach. NaProTECHNOLOGY-based protocols address oligospermia within a couple-centered evaluation, with published outcomes reporting favorable pregnancy results in oligospermia-related infertility.
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult an RRM clinician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.