Do you think about your fertility? If not, you’re not alone. Many men don’t focus on their reproductive health until they’re trying to start a family or face unexpected challenges.
Fertility can seem like a women’s issue, but it’s not. In fact, male factors are involved in about half of all cases of fertility.
Taking care of your reproductive health is just as important as caring for your heart or muscles. And the choices you make every day can greatly impact your ability to have children in the future.
Read on to understand more about male fertility, the factors that can affect it and how you can improve your chances of starting a family when you’re ready.
What is male fertility?
Male fertility refers to the ability to produce healthy sperm that can fertilize an egg. For men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) fertility relies on the testicles producing sperm and the body’s ability to deliver it to the female reproductive system.
“Several factors play a role in male fertility, including sperm count, quality and motility – how well sperm swim,” said Priyanka Bearelly, MD, a urologist with Banner – University Medicine. “Healthy sperm need to be plentiful, well-shaped and strong enough to reach and fertilize an egg.”
Factors that affect male fertility
Many factors can affect your fertility and contribute to infertility. Some are beyond your control like age and genetics but others are influenced by things you can change.
Here are some factors that can impact your fertility:
- Age: While you can produce sperm throughout your life, age can impact sperm quality. “After age 40, sperm quality starts to decrease,” Dr. Bearelly said. “The genetic information of sperm can deteriorate and is more susceptible to damage that is not readily repaired. Ultimately, this can lead to a slight increase in genetic disorders for their offspring.”
- Lifestyle choices: Daily habits play a big role in fertility. Using tobacco, marijuana and alcohol and an unhealthy diet can harm sperm quality.
- Health history: Certain medical issues, infections or past surgeries in the groin or pelvic area can impact fertility and cause scarring that blocks sperm. “Varicocele, a condition where enlarged veins around the testicles affect sperm production, is one possible cause of male infertility,” Dr. Bearelly said. Hormone imbalances, like low testosterone, can also cause low sperm numbers.
- Medications and chemicals: Some medications like steroids or chemotherapy, supplements and exposure to environmental toxins can harm sperm. Always discuss these factors with your health care provider if your fertility is a concern.
- Heat exposure: Sperm production works best in cooler temperatures. “Activities like frequent hot tub use or sauna visits can reduce sperm production,” Dr. Bearelly said.
- Mental health and stress: Chronic stress and anxiety can affect hormones and lower sperm production.
How to improve male fertility
While some causes of infertility are out of your hands, there are ways to boost your reproductive health.
- Prioritize a healthy lifestyle: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins and get regular physical activity. “Regular exercise and a well-balanced diet not only support healthy sperm quality but also optimize the hormones necessary for sperm production and maturation,” Dr. Bearelly said.
- Avoid harmful habits: Quit smoking, limit alcohol use and avoid recreational drugs. These habits can help improve sperm quality and fertility.
- Manage stress: Stress reduction techniques like meditation, exercise and therapy can improve hormone levels and overall health.
- Avoid excessive heat: Keep your scrotum cool. Skip the jacuzzi, saunas and heated car seats. Opt for loose-fitting underwear to keep the testicles cool.
- Review medications: Some medications and supplements can affect fertility. Talk to your health care provider about safer alternatives if you’re trying to have children.
- Avoid fertility supplements: You may come across many supplements claiming to improve fertility, but buyer beware. “There is no good quality data to show that supplements significantly improve male fertility,” Dr. Bearelly said. Instead, it’s best to talk to a specialist who can identify the right steps and treatment to improve your chances of having a baby.
When to see a specialist
If you and your partner have been trying for six to 12 months to get pregnant without success, it may be time to see your health care provider or a fertility specialist. However, if you’re concerned about your fertility and health, don’t hesitate to seek help.
“An initial visit typically includes a physical exam and a review of your medical history,” Dr. Bearelly said. “Basic tests, like semen analysis and some blood tests, are often done to help identify any underlying issues. They may also look for blockages.”
In some cases, treatments like medications, hormone therapy or surgery can help. Assisted reproductive technologies, like in vitro fertilization (IVF), are also options for some couples.
“Everyone has a unique situation and it’s important to address fertility concerns early,” Dr. Bearelly said. “With the right support and interventions, many fertility challenges can be overcome.”
Takeaway
Fertility is an important part of overall health. Taking care of your body now can help ensure that you’re ready for parenthood when the time comes.
If you’re planning to start a family – or want to learn more about your reproductive health – talk to a health care provider or a Banner Health specialist.
