Which of the following is NOT listed as a factor that can cause a limited sperm count?

• A. Chronic infections
• B. Congenital abnormalities
• C. Regular exercise
• D. Varicocele

Answer: (C)

The key idea is what can and cannot lower sperm numbers. Chronic infections of the male reproductive tract can inflame or obstruct pathways, leading to reduced sperm production or quality. Congenital abnormalities can disrupt the structure or flow of sperm, also lowering count. Varicocele raises the scrotal temperature and can impair testicular function, decreasing spermatogenesis. Regular exercise, on the other hand, is not typically listed as a cause of a limited sperm count; it generally supports overall health and fertility, with only extreme overtraining or unusual heat exposure potentially having a negative effect in rare cases. So regular exercise is the factor that does not belong among those that can cause a reduced sperm count.