When a man ejaculates, normally anywhere from 15 million to 200 million sperm per milliliter are released. If the semen contains fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter or 39 million sperm per ejaculate, the sperm count is considered to be low.
When the sperm count is low, the chances of fertilizing your partner’s egg are decreased. This does not necessarily mean that you cannot father a child. Many men with this condition are still able to impregnate their partner. Several factors can contribute to this condition.
Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, can also affect sperm count. When testosterone levels are lower than normal, fertility can be affected. The lack of this hormone can decrease sperm cell production. It can also affect sexual performance. Men with low testosterone levels experience a reduced sex drive and may have erectile dysfunction.