Concerns About Testicle Size and Sperm Count: What You Need to Know

Question

Hello, doctor.
To be honest, I am no longer a virgin and I am also married.
I have engaged in sexual activity many times, and I have a concern: it seems that my testicles feel smaller, and the volume of sperm appears to be less than before.
What should I do?

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/05/26

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

No way! The testicles cannot suddenly shrink; however, if they suddenly enlarge or if there are irregular hard lumps, you should see a doctor for an examination.
As for sperm count, how are you measuring that? I suggest you look for a few books like "The Love of the Little Brother" and "About Sex."

Reply Date: 2001/05/26

More Info

Concerns about testicle size and sperm count are common among men, especially those who are trying to conceive. It's important to understand that both testicle size and sperm count can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, health, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
Firstly, regarding testicle size, it is essential to note that there is a wide range of what is considered "normal." Testicle size can vary significantly from person to person, and while some men may feel their testicles are smaller than average, this does not necessarily indicate a problem with fertility or sexual function. The average size of adult testicles is typically around 3 to 5 centimeters in length and 2 to 3 centimeters in width. If you have concerns about your testicle size, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess whether there are any underlying issues.

As for sperm count, it is measured in millions of sperm per milliliter of semen. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a normal sperm count is typically considered to be 15 million sperm per milliliter or more. If you feel that your sperm count has decreased, it is advisable to undergo a semen analysis. This test will provide detailed information about your sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape), which are all crucial factors in fertility.

Several factors can affect sperm count, including:
1. Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can negatively impact sperm production. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help improve sperm health.

2. Heat Exposure: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, such as using hot tubs or saunas, can affect sperm production. It is advisable to avoid such exposures if you are concerned about fertility.

3. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, infections, or varicocele (enlargement of veins within the scrotum), can affect sperm production. If you suspect a medical issue, it is crucial to seek medical advice.

4. Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and heavy metals, can also impact sperm health. Reducing exposure to these substances can be beneficial.

5. Age: While men can remain fertile into older age, sperm quality and quantity can decline with age.
If you are concerned about your sperm count and testicle size, it is advisable to consult a urologist or a fertility specialist. They can perform the necessary tests and provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
In terms of treatment, if a low sperm count is diagnosed, there are several options available, including lifestyle changes, medical treatments, or assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) if natural conception proves difficult.
In conclusion, while concerns about testicle size and sperm count are valid, it is essential to approach these issues with a clear understanding of what is considered normal and the factors that can influence these aspects of male reproductive health. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and guidance tailored to your individual needs.

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