what does my sperm count need to be for pregnancy - Trying to Conceive (TTC) Message Board

jojo118 · 11-15-2007, 12:12 PM

what does my sperm count need to be for pregnancy? we have stepped it up to the next level folistam or something? thats the small shots in the belly.. but unfor the first try didnt work?? by count was 3.3 millon.. to low? was that the prob very frustrated thinking about giving up?? should we do IVF?? ANY ADVISE??

Blastoff9600 · 11-15-2007, 01:06 PM

Generally 20 million per milliliter on up to 40 million is the normal range.
Now have you only had one SA done? If you have only had one I would strongly suggest you get at least one more. There are so many things that can effect the count such as a illness and so on. Also you dont mention anything else there is more to an SA than the count.
So I would look into getting another SA done. You can also talk to the dr about ways to increase your numbers. There are vitamins and even some fertility drugs used to increase your count. One drug that can be used in men that helps sperm count is also the first used for women. It is clomid.

jojo118 · 11-15-2007, 01:10 PM

so there is hope? what about IVF what does the sperm count need to be? should i look into accupunture? don't understand dont smoke eat health excercise?

cashahn · 11-15-2007, 06:13 PM

Hi JOJO

Just the stress of TTC can lower a man's sperm count. Underwear can play a factor aswell. As Blastoff suggested I would get another SA done, but in the meantime you can take vitamins and do something for yourself to relax your mind and body. Accupuncture is great I have just started it myself. IVF is an option and you can have it with ICSI which is where they inject the sperm into the egg, I will be starting my 1st IVF with ICSI in Jan and there is alot involved and the emotional and financial cost is high but we dont have much choice. I would get another SA and then decide where you want to go from there. I wish you all the best.

Cashahn xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Blastoff9600 · 11-15-2007, 07:15 PM

Also wanted to suggest that both you and your wife should read the book Taking Charge Of Your Fertility. It has a male section in there that can give you excellent tips for you on what you can take to improve your count.
If you smoke it would be good to quit. Just like you should already be eating healthy and taking vitamins. There are supplements you can take that naturally improve your count.
Also like I siad you only mentioned your count. Like I said there is more than just the actual sperm count. Such as motility,morphology, and so on. Those play a role in getting your wife pregnant.
Again get another SA or two done along with reading that book.
Also if you ride a bicycle regularly cut back or get the seat changed to one that is scrotum freindly. No more hot tubs or saunas either. The heat is bad for sperm. Hence the change of underwear as well boxers are best but boxer briefs are ok.