There are several activities hurting a man’s fertility on a daily basis. Look: By making some simple lifestyle changes, a man can boost his fertility within about three months.
Follow Dr. Zhang’s recommendations to boost your fertility.
Taking Testosterone-Containing Supplements. These can actually lower sperm count to zero. In contrast – taking Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can positively impact sperm production and increase morphology.
Smoking. These two habits are double trouble. Smokers have a high rate of sperm DNA damage which limits the chance of normal fertilization. Smokers also have low sperm counts which reduces the likelihood of successful fertilization.
Alcohol. Five alcoholic drinks per week can lower the quality and quantity of a man’s sperm. Also, alcohol interferes with the ability of a man to achieve and maintain an erection.
Stress. This causes many ailments – including male infertility. Stress causes imbalances in key hormones that ultimately decrease sperm production.
Overheating the Penis. The penis is located outside of the body to keep it from being too warm. Long hot baths, hot tubs, saunas, or wearing tight underwear for extended periods of time will impact sperm negatively. Also, radiation from your laptop and cellphone placed on your lap will impair your sperm
Smoking Marijuana. Social drugs like pot are on the rise. This is a major no-no when it comes to a man’s fertility. Wee, edibles, vapes can genetically alter sperm and drop sperm count drastically in heavy users. Stop using pot at least six months before trying to conceive.
Working with Chemicals. Your workplace may be lowering your fertility. Men who work with petrochemicals, pesticides, or other organic solvents/automotive produces tend to have higher rates of sperm impairment and partners with higher rates of miscarriage.
Being Overweight. As men gain weight, their hormonal balance is thrown off. Men with a BMI greater than 30 are three times more likely to have a low sperm count. An exercise plan and healthy diet are recommended as weightloss tools before trying to conceive.
Healthy Diet. For good quality sperm, an increased consumption of greens, veggies, legumes, and healthy fats is recommended. Avoid trans fats and processed foods.
Even if a man’s sperm count is normal – it may not be optimal for getting a woman pregnant naturally. Men with normal sperm counts can still be contributing to a couple’s infertility.
A man’s sperm quality is critical – even if his sperm count lab results fall within a normal range.
Make an appointment with a fertility specialist for a thorough reproductive examination and preliminary assessment of your male reproductive health. At New Hope Fertility Center, both female and male patients undergo a complete fertility assessment to evaluate their reproductive health.
The good news! Flagging any potential medical cause of infertility is the quick and cost-effectively help you get pregnant. Once the problem is identified, great strides toward a pregnancy can be made through a customized male fertility treatment plan.
It is important to work with a fertility doctor having the experience to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your infertility and design a customized treatment plan meeting your specific personal needs.
The Men’s Health Awareness movement encourages the early detection of male-factor infertility. Dr. John Zhang is an avid promoter of men’s health week – June 10th through June 16th – to increase awareness of male-factor infertility prevention and treatment. To schedule your initial consultation with Dr. John Zhang, call 917.525.5496.