What causes sudden low sperm count or absence of sperm?

In general, sudden oligospermia (low sperm count) or azoospermia (absence of sperm) may be caused by factors such as aging, stress, medication effects, prostatitis, or varicocele. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Aging

With advancing age, spermatogonial cells in the testes gradually decrease and hormone levels decline, leading to reduced sperm production. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—such as engaging in moderate exercise and balanced nutrition—can help slow this process.

2. Stress

Under stress, elevated cortisol levels in the body can suppress the hypothalamus from releasing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), thereby affecting the pituitary gland's secretion of gonadotropins and ultimately impairing sperm production in the testes, resulting in oligospermia or azoospermia. Stress-reduction measures such as psychological counseling, yoga, and meditation may help alleviate these symptoms.

3. Medication Effects

Certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs and anti-androgens, may interfere with sperm production or impair testicular function, leading to the aforementioned conditions. It is advisable to adjust treatment plans under a doctor’s supervision or consider alternative fertility options.

4. Prostatitis

Prostatitis may result from irregular sexual activity, prolonged sitting, or other factors. The inflammatory response can disrupt the environment necessary for sperm production and survival, leading to decreased sperm count or motility. Symptoms may include frequent urination, urgency, and dysuria. Treatment may include medications such as azithromycin tablets, roxithromycin tablets, or Qianlieshutong capsules, as prescribed by a physician.

5. Varicocele

Varicocele is often caused by incompetent venous valves in the spermatic veins. This condition impairs venous blood return from the testicles, causing local temperature elevation and disrupting the optimal environment required for sperm production, which may lead to oligospermia or azoospermia. Patients may experience sensations of heaviness or pain in the scrotum. Treatment under medical guidance may include sodium escinate tablets, citrus flavonoid tablets, or sildenafil citrate tablets to help relieve symptoms.

Avoid不良 habits such as excessive masturbation, which may negatively affect sperm quantity and quality. Additionally, maintaining sufficient sleep and regular作息 patterns supports bodily recovery and improves sperm quality.