The commonest condition relating to sperm count are -

1. Oligospermia – Low sperm count. The sperm count is considered lower than normal if you have fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
2. Azoospermia – Complete absence of sperms.
3. Necrospermia – Dead sperms. These sperms are unable to fertilize the ovum, at times the increased heat or acidic pH in vagina can also lead to death of the sperms.
4. Asthenozoospermia – Reduced sperm motility. The sperms in this condition are weak and lack the necessary stamina to reach the ovum and eventually lead to infertility.

All these conditions may lead to failure to induce conception. At times there can be structural abnormality in the sperms like head or tail abnormalities.

Other important factors checked in a sperm analysis are :

• Semen volume
• Total sperm number
• Sperm concentration
• Vitality of sperm
• Motility of sperm

If a semen analysis shows irregularities in any of these areas, a wait-and-see approach is generally tried first. Another semen analysis is usually done after four to six weeks to see whether sperm quality has improved on its own. If there are still abnormalities, tests may be necessary to look for an underlying problem.

Even with abnormal sperm morphology, motility problems or a low sperm count, it’s important to remember that an abnormal semen analysis does not always mean you are infertile. Few life style changes, dietary changes and proper medication can help you father a child.