0 Sperm Count Treatment

A diagnosis of zero sperm count, also known as azoospermia, can come as a shock. It's a deeply personal issue and one that often brings emotional as well as physical challenges. The good news is, there are ways forward.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through what it means, the different types of azoospermia, and practical, science-backed approaches to help address it, including how to increase sperm count. Whilst we cannot offer a cure, the approaches below may help support overall sperm health and reproductive function.

Types of Azoospermia

There are two main types of azoospermia, and understanding which one you have is key to deciding on treatment options:

• Obstructive Azoospermia: Sperm is produced in the testes but is blocked from reaching the semen due to a physical obstruction such as a vasectomy, infection, or congenital condition.
• Non-Obstructive Azoospermia: This type occurs when the testes are not producing sperm effectively, often due to hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, or testicular damage.

What Causes Zero Sperm Count?

Some common causes include:

• Genetic conditions (e.g. Klinefelter syndrome, Y-chromosome microdeletions)
• Previous chemotherapy or radiation
• Undescended testicles
• Hormonal disorders
• Physical obstructions (e.g. vas deferens blockages)

This NHS blog page provides an overview of male infertility causes and diagnostic options.

How Long Does It Take for Sperm to Regenerate?

Sperm regeneration takes around 64 to 74 days in a healthy male, meaning lifestyle changes and medical treatments may take 2–3 months to show results. That’s why early intervention and consistency are crucial when working on how to increase your sperm count.

Lifestyle Modifications to Support Sperm Health

If you’re wondering how to increase my sperm count, certain lifestyle choices and supplements can make a difference, especially in cases where some sperm production remains.

1. Foods to Improve Sperm Count

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
• Walnuts and Brazil nuts
• Oily fish (like salmon) or algae-based omega-3 for vegetarians
• Fruits high in vitamin C (kiwi, oranges, strawberries)
• Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds

2. Supplements to Boost Sperm Count

Clinical research suggests the following supplements may help in supporting sperm health:

• CoQ10 (Ubiquinol): An antioxidant shown to support sperm motility and count. We always recommend the bioavailable form ubiquinol vs the synthetic form ubiquinone. Learn more about the differences here.
• Zinc: Plays a role in testosterone production and sperm development.
• Folate and Inositol: May support sperm count and DNA quality, especially in cases related to methylation issues. It is often recommended to take folic acid during preconception, but we recommend folate. The reason is similar to ubiquinol vs ubiquinone: folate is the bioavailable form. Learn more about the differences here.
• L-carnitine: Supports sperm motility and mitochondrial health.
• Selenium and Vitamin E: Help protect sperm from oxidative stress.

For those looking for an all around supplement to support their sperm health, we recommend Zita West Vitamen. This one-a-day supplement contains all of the recommended nutrients, vitamins and minerals for men. 

Vitamen was formulated specifically to pair with our range of supporting supplements and antioxidants such as those found in our Ultimate Male IVF Pack, which contains all of the supplements (including CoQ10) that we would recommend men before assisted fertility.

As it can take up to 74 days for sperm to regenerate, we recommend taking your supplements for a minimum of three months before starting any fertility treatments, and always consult a fertility expert before starting new supplements, especially if you are undergoing IVF or ICSI.

Medical Treatment Options

• Hormonal therapy – For men with hormone imbalances (e.g., low FSH/LH).
• Micro-TESE – A surgical sperm retrieval method for men with non-obstructive azoospermia.
• Surgical correction – To repair obstructions in the reproductive tract.
• ICSI – Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection can be used if sperm is found or retrieved.

HFEA (UK's Fertility Regulator) offers further reading on ICSI as well as other assisted fertility treatments available.

Emotional Wellbeing

Facing azoospermia can be emotionally draining. It’s important to have support from your partner, a counsellor, or fertility coach. Remember, many men do go on to have children through assisted reproductive techniques or donor options. You are not alone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can zero sperm count be reversed?

In some cases, particularly with obstructive azoospermia or hormone-related causes, yes. Treatments and surgery can restore sperm to the ejaculate or enable retrieval for IVF.

What are the signs of azoospermia?

There are often no obvious symptoms. It’s usually diagnosed through a semen analysis after struggling to conceive.

How long does it take to increase sperm count naturally?

It typically takes 2–3 months to see improvements due to the sperm regeneration cycle.

Are there any foods that can help improve sperm health?

Yes. Foods high in antioxidants, zinc, omega-3, and vitamins like C and E can help support healthy sperm production.

Which supplements are best for sperm count?

CoQ10 (Ubiquinol), zinc, L-carnitine, selenium, folic acid, and inositol are all commonly used in male fertility protocols.