Male Infertility Can Be Improved
Over one-third of infertility cases are due to the male’s fertility. Male infertility includes any condition in a man that reduces the possibility of his female partner conceiving a child. Fertility issues can affect libido, erectile dysfunction, sperm count, sperm motility, and hormone levels. Chronic health issues and poor lifestyle choices can play a part in male infertility.
Lifestyle changes to increase fertility
Some male infertility cases are untreatable, but other cases can be improved by a healthy diet and improved lifestyle choices. Depending on the symptoms and type of male infertility, men can use the following tips to increase sperm count and fertility.
1. Moderate exercise for a healthy weight
Binge-watching television shows can be tempting but research suggests that men who are physically active have a higher sperm count than men who aren’t as physically active. Other studies warn that long-term, high-intensity exercises like cycling or running can have the opposite effect on reproduction.
Regular exercise can also bring some men to a healthier weight. Research shows that an increase in body mass index (BMI) is associated with a lower sperm count and motility. There is also a high incidence of low testosterone levels and high estrogen levels in obese men, all of which can affect male fertility.
2. Relax and de-stress
Male infertility can cause undue stress which impairs fertility. Stress can lead to a lower level of sexual satisfaction, hormone levels, and overall contentment in a relationship Chronic stress can also increase levels of cortisol which can reduce testosterone levels. Healthy testosterone levels are needed for proper sperm production.
Severe forms of stress disorders like anxiety and depression can be treated with medication. Milder forms of stress can be minimized by stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, music, and deep breathing.
3. Eat healthier
Eating high-fat and sugary foods like pizza, processed meats, and junk foods can negatively affect male fertility. Male fertility issues can arise if the health of a cell’s mitochondria is poor. Mitochondria are the energy source of cells. A diet high in fat and minimal vegetables can increase free radical damage.
Oxidative stress from free radicals can reduce a sperm’s ability to function and penetrate the female egg’s membrane. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc or taking supplements can combat free radical damage and boost sperm count and motility.
4. Quit smoking
Smoking cigarettes may be on the decline, but so is semen count and quality for cigarette smokers. Smoking can have a significant negative effect on the DNA of sperm, density, and mobility. Smoking marijuana can also make it hard for men to make normal-looking sperm. A study found that marijuana use was associated with poor semen quality.
5. Avoid excessive heat
Men who suffer from male infertility should avoid hot tubs and excessive heat. Results from a study on infertile men exposed to hot tubs found that high water temperatures impair sperm production and motility. To be safe, men suffering from male infertility should also avoid long hot showers and laptops should be placed on a table instead of the lap.
Talk to a specialist
There are many myths surrounding issues with male fertility. While infertility can be stressful for couples who want to conceive, there are plenty of other tips that can work to improve the quality of sperm and semen. Men struggling with infertility can talk with a fertility specialist about the best treatment options available.
