Low Sperm count for 1st IUI

So i just got home from my first IUI...they told me my DH sperm count was very low...4.5million before washed and seperated. Then 3.5million live ones after washed. I had so much going on in my mind i forgot to ask...does anyone know what normal is? And i always think of questions once i am already gone. Does anyone know how to raise sperm count? Is that even possible? I was so excited for this IUI and now i feel so depressed...i dont have much hope this worked...it sounded like it was really low the way i understood it. Is it possible for it to work with low sperm count?
ive been crying since...i know i should stay positive. It just doesnt seem possible. I thought this whole time it was me...guess it is both of us.

[usuk]

this may help.
http://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/guide/semen-analysis?page=2

[ladybug82]

of course its posible You only need one lil strong swimmer, STAY SRONG AND BE POSITIVE.... negative is not ALLOWED ... you did your part your hubby did his, all we do now is wait and we begain your TWW and take care of your self.. you will get your BFP !!!! sending you s many bug hugs !!!!!! and keep us postd!!!!!! *:O) erika

[anna75]

Just keep positive!!! They told me that 20 million was average. With my first and second IUI my husbands sperm count was 70 to 80 million, but his last one was just 34 million. He started smoking again and the nurse said this could be effecting his count and mobility. I figured as much...he is now trying to quite again. Does your husband smoke?The counts can flucuate all the time. It is going to happen!!! Praying for you!!!! Take care and try to think positive....it really only takes one strong spermie to make it happen:o)

[jennlaurin80]

thanks:) i am going to stay positive....these next two weeks are going to be tortureous!
My husband does smoke...occassionaly. Usually when he has a few drinks. I quit about 8 months ago...and he is working on it.
When i told him about the low sperm count he promised he would quit. So...i hope he is able to. I know how tough it is when you have alot of stress. My husband is going to do accupuncture with me. He is going to do the one to help stop smoking. Im not sure if your husband would be willing to try it out, but two girls i work with did it and havent smoked yet...its been about 2 weeks and they are heavy smokers.
Good Luck to you guys ....thanks for keeping me positive.