January 23, 2026
Treatments for Low Sperm Count: San Antonio Fertility Options Explained
Low sperm count (oligospermia) is defined as fewer than 20 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Treatments include intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), sperm extraction techniques, and donor sperm. The Fertility Center of San Antonio offers advanced solutions for male infertility.
Key Takeaways
Sperm Washing: Enhancing Sperm Quality for Fertility Treatments
Sperm washing isolates viable sperm from semen, removing debris and non-viable cells. This process increases pregnancy chances by selecting the healthiest sperm for procedures like IUI or IVF and can also screen for genetic defects.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) for Improved Pregnancy Chances
IUI involves inserting washed sperm directly into the uterus via catheter, bypassing the cervix. This method is particularly effective when low sperm count is mild to moderate, as it places sperm closer to the egg for natural fertilization.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) for Conceiving with Low Sperm Count
IVF fertilizes eggs in a lab using sperm from the male partner or donor. For low sperm count cases, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be combined with IVF to inject a single sperm directly into an egg, improving fertilization rates.
Sperm Extraction Techniques for Non-Ejaculated Sperm Recovery
Men with azoospermia (no sperm in semen) may use testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA). These procedures retrieve sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis for use in IVF/ICSI.
Sperm Donors as an Effective Alternative for Low Sperm Count
When using the male partner’s sperm is not viable, donor sperm can be integrated into IUI or IVF. Donors are screened for health, genetic markers, and physical traits, offering a reliable option for conception when low sperm count is severe.
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