I am hoping that someone will be able to shed light on a rather akward question. :confused:

Over the last year or so DH and I have been noticing that he doesn't seem to be producing as much semen as usual. In the past after BDing I used to feel quite wet and sticky (sorry, TMI!) and would even feel it leaking out the next day. Lately though, that definitely hasn't been happening.

A couple of weeks ago DH had a sperm analysis done. I haven't actually rung up to get the results yet but I must say that there wasn't very much in the little container that they provided us with. The analysis before that I thought the same thing but there was even less this time. At his last analysis he had a lowered sperm count of 13 million.

Does anybody know why this would be happening? :confused: I am really beginning to think that this may be the sole reason for our secondary IF. He has been taking supplements but we don't know whether or not they have been helping.

Thanks in advance.

Ruby

I really don't know what could be causing this, but my doctor has me do timed intercourse because he said it is better. If a man's sperm count is not that high and he is having intercourse everyday the count can go down. The amount of ejaculate should stay the same though.

Hi Ruby!

I read that the average amount of seminal fluid is about 5ml which is a teaspoon. Sperm is said to be only 1% of that amount. If it is less than 2ml then maybe you need to raise your concern to the doctor for possible prostate problems. It is normal to see less seminal fluid with advancing age for men but wouldnt affect sperm count.

I dont think your DH has a problem. Drinking a lot of fluids, abstinence and long foreplay before intercourse will solve the problem. Wink, Wink ;)

Sarah

You know, I'm not really sure either. But, I wondered the same thing when we first started at the RE's office, b/c I used to feel like there was so much leaking out after BDing, but during all of his SA (and his collections for IUIs), the amount seemed very little, and his sperm count was low. The RE still thinks that IUIs could work, though. So, anyhow, I don't know if the volume was always that low or not.

I know that doesn't really help, but I would bring up any concerns to your RE and speak with him/her about it.

Hope you're feeling well!

Kelley

I'm not an expert either but the nurse at the RE's office told me, "It's the quality, not the quantity"
Jennifer

Thanks for the replies. I guess I'll run it past the doctor next time we visit.

Sarah, I'll definitely try your suggestions - I'm sure DH will be more than happy to oblige!

Kelley, I hope you're feeling well too - have a good weekend!

Ruby