What Should be the Sperm Count? Normal Sperm Values

For men who want to become fathers, one of the most common questions is “What should my sperm count be to have children?” Male fertility depends on several parameters evaluated together during semen analysis. Sperm count is important, but it is not the only determining factor. Sperm motility, morphology, volume, and DNA integrity also play a critical role in natural conception and assisted reproductive treatments.

Sperm production begins during puberty and continues throughout life, although sperm quality and quantity may decline with age. Normal sperm values vary from person to person and are influenced by genetic background, prenatal development, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposure.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for semen analysis, the lower reference limits for normal sperm values are clearly defined.

What Should Be the Normal Sperm Count?

According to WHO criteria, the minimum normal sperm concentration is:

• 15 million sperm per milliliter
• At least 39–40 million sperm per ejaculate

Sperm counts below these reference values do not mean pregnancy is impossible, but they may reduce the likelihood of natural conception and prolong the time needed to achieve pregnancy.

Low sperm count (oligozoospermia) can occur for many reasons, including hormonal imbalances, infections, lifestyle factors, or temporary conditions such as fever or stress.

What Should Be the Sperm Motility Level?

Having a high sperm count alone is not sufficient for fertility. Sperm motility—the ability of sperm to move efficiently—is equally important.

For example, a man with:

• 100 million sperm and 30% motility

may have a similar chance of pregnancy as someone with:

• 50 million sperm and 60% motility

Sperm motility is evaluated by dividing sperm into movement classes:

• Progressive motility (A + B): fast or slow forward movement
• Non-progressive motility (C): movement without forward progression
• Immotile (D): no movement

For normal fertility potential, WHO recommends:

• Total motility ≥ 40–50%, or
• Progressive motility (A+B) ≥ 32%

Why Is Sperm Morphology Important?

Sperm morphology refers to the shape and structural integrity of sperm cells. Surprisingly for many patients, a semen sample is considered normal if only 4% of sperm have a normal shape according to Kruger strict criteria.

This means that the majority of sperm may have shape abnormalities, yet fertility can still be possible if other parameters are within normal ranges. Today, sperm DNA fragmentation is also evaluated as an additional marker of sperm quality.

Normal Sperm Values (WHO Reference Ranges)

• Volume: ≥ 2.0 mL
• pH: ≥ 7.2
• Sperm concentration: ≥ 15 million/mL
• Total sperm count: ≥ 39–40 million/ejaculate
• Motility: ≥ 50% total (A+B) or ≥ 25% fast progressive (A)
• Morphology: ≥ 4% normal forms (Kruger)
• Viability: ≥ 75% live sperm
• Leukocytes: < 1 million/mL

These parameters must always be evaluated together, not individually, to determine fertility potential.

Can Sperm Count Be Increased?

If there is no underlying genetic or anatomical problem, sperm count and quality may improve with lifestyle changes. Recommendations include:

• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Regular physical activity
• Balanced and nutrient-rich diet
• Managing stress and ensuring adequate sleep

There are antioxidant supplements marketed to increase sperm count, but these should only be used under medical supervision. Uncontrolled use may cause more harm than benefit.

Does Lifestyle and Clothing Affect Sperm Count?

Yes. The testes are located outside the body to maintain a temperature slightly lower than body temperature, which is essential for sperm production.

Factors that negatively affect sperm production include:

• Tight underwear or clothing that increases scrotal temperature
• Prolonged exposure to heat (hot baths, saunas, furnaces)
• Occupational exposure to pesticides, chemicals, or extreme heat

Maintaining optimal testicular temperature supports healthy sperm development.

Which Foods Help Support Sperm Count?

There is no single food that dramatically increases sperm count, but a healthy body produces healthier sperm. Nutrients associated with sperm health include:

• Zinc
• Selenium
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin D
• Lycopene

Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lean protein sources can support both general health and sperm quality when consumed regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a normal sperm count?

A normal sperm count is at least 15 million sperm per milliliter and around 40 million sperm per ejaculate according to WHO guidelines.

Is high sperm count enough to get pregnant?

No. Sperm motility, morphology, and DNA quality are also essential for fertility.

Can low sperm count be treated?

In many cases, lifestyle changes and medical treatment can improve sperm count if no genetic or anatomical issue is present.

Does tight clothing reduce sperm count?

Yes. Tight clothing can increase testicular temperature and negatively affect sperm production.

How long does it take to improve sperm quality?

Sperm production cycles last about 74 days, so improvements usually take 2–3 months.