How to Jump Start Male Fertility
Infertility is not just a female problem. Nine percent of men are affected with infertility. Bottom Line: There are several unknown activities hurting a man’s fertility on a daily basis. The Good News: Within about three months, a man’s fertility can be increased through simple lifestyle changes.
Jump Start Male Fertility
There are many activities that adversely affect a man’s sperm quantity and quality.
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.
Male Fertility
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.
- Morphology
- Motility
- Forward progression
- Semen volume
- Liquefaction time
Plan of Action to Increase Male Fertility
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.
More Helpful Pregnancy Resources
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.
Customized Protocols
- Timed Intercourse with medical assistance
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
- Conventional IVF
- Mini-IVF™
- Natural Cycle IVF™
- Needle-Free IVF
To schedule your initial consultation with Dr. John Zhang at New Hope Fertility Center, call 917.525.5496.
