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Causes
By Mayo Clinic staffAlthough in many cases the exact cause isn't always clear, possible reasons for low sperm count include:
- Varicocele. This is a swollen vein inside the scrotum that can affect sperm production. This common cause of male infertility can be repaired with minor surgery.
- Damaged sperm ducts. Inherited conditions, infections, surgeries or injuries can damage the delicate duct system that carries sperm from the testicles into the penis.
- Anti-sperm antibodies. Men who have anti-sperm antibodies have an immune system response that attacks their own sperm. Common in men who have had a vasectomy reversal, this condition can also be caused by other problems such as an injury or infection.
- Problems with sperm production. These issues can be caused by a genetic (inherited) condition such as Klinefelter's syndrome or a hormonal disorder such as a health problem that affects the pituitary gland in your brain. If you have an inherited condition, you're more likely to have complete lack of sperm in your semen (azoospermia).
