Male Fertility Myths And Facts

Many wonder why a man would be concerned about his fertility. Though the woman bears the child, men play a crucial role in conception by donating sperm. Male infertility is widespread and significant, as a fertile male is essential for reproduction.

Before believing any claims, seek scientific evidence as proof. Deep down, we know there is no magic cure. However, the promise of an instant solution can sometimes override sound judgement, leading to false hopes and wasted money. Everyone is susceptible to being misled despite how cautious they may be.

MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT MALE FERTILITY

There are many beliefs about male fertility. Some of them are grandmother's tales, while others may have some truth associated with them. Let us look at each one in detail and see what are some facts about male fertility and which one is only a myth.

Age Does Not Affect Male Fertility

Male fertility declines with age. Older men are less potent and take longer to impregnate a woman. Once a man crosses 40, the quality of his sperm steadily declines. This doesn't mean an older man cannot father a child, but his chances are reduced due to the deterioration of sperm quality and an increase in abnormally shaped sperm.

Only Women Need To Take Supplements For Fertility

Supplements can improve male fertility and should be taken when planning to have a baby. Folic acid, recommended for pregnant women, also boosts male fertility. Zinc and vitamins C and E improve sperm quality and count.

Don't ignore your supplements; they play a vital role in sperm production.

Smoking Does Not Have Any Effect On A Man's Fertility

Smoking reduces male fertility by damaging sperm quality and reducing sperm count. Despite seeing smokers who have children, smoking does affect fertility. Sperm quality has declined over the years, and men today produce less sperm than their forefathers. While some smokers have children, smoking increases infertility risk by 30%. The impact depends on the number of cigarettes smoked.

Cell Phones And Laptops Do Not Affect Fertility

Heat and electromagnetic waves from cell phones and laptops can affect sperm quality. Keeping cell phones in trouser pockets exposes sperm to electromagnetic signals. Additionally, the heat from using a laptop on your lap for extended periods can cause DNA damage to sperm.

Hot Tubs Are Relaxing And Help To Reduce Stress And Improve Sperm Quality

Heat can damage sperm. Soaking in a hot tub or using saunas exposes the testes to high temperatures, which can lower sperm health. The testes are located outside the body to stay cooler than the rest of the body, essential for maintaining healthy sperm. Avoid exposing the testes to high heat for long periods to protect sperm quality.

Boxers Are Better Than Briefs

As long as your testes have air to breathe and stay cool, wearing briefs is fine. While boxers provide better cooling and air circulation, wearing briefs will not likely cause infertility. There's no need to switch to boxers to maintain fertility.

Cycling Can Cause Male Infertility

Cycling, which predates automobiles, does not damage sperm. In fact, the movement of the legs helps keep the testes cool. The bicycle seat does not put significant pressure on the testes, making sperm safe while cycling. Cycling is better for fertility than driving, as sitting in a car generates more heat.

Smoking Marijuana Is Good For Fertility

Marijuana reduces sperm count and results in abnormally shaped sperm. Those who smoke marijuana are more likely to be infertile due to its negative effects on sperm. Abnormally shaped sperm cannot swim effectively or penetrate the egg, preventing conception.

Alcohol In Moderation Is Fine

Occasional alcohol consumption is fine, but regular drinking, even in moderation, can harm sperm quality. Regular alcohol intake affects sperm shape, which is crucial for conception. To maintain fertility, limit alcohol to special occasions.

Abstinence To Improve Sperm Quality

Regular ejaculation can improve sperm quality and motility, which is crucial for fertility. Infrequent sex may contribute to infertility. Healthy sperm with good motility meaning they can move effectively are more likely to reach and fertilize the egg. To maintain optimal sperm quality, engage in regular sex and ejaculation.

Chemicals In The Skin Products And Everyday Items Can Make You Infertile

Chemicals absorbed from sunscreen, car seat upholstery, or non-stick pans are unlikely to affect male fertility. Small amounts of chemicals in everyday products like creams, shampoos, and soaps are not known to cause infertility. The body can easily expel these small amounts.

A Healthy Man Has All Healthy Sperm

On average, only about 14% of sperm are healthy, meaning they are well-shaped and have good swimming skills. Most sperm are poorly shaped and lack vitality. However, just 14% of healthy sperm are sufficient for fertility, as only one sperm is needed to fertilize an egg. If you're healthy, don't assume your sperm are in perfect condition, take precautions to protect their quality.

Male Infertility Is Hereditary

While genes can influence male fertility, most cases of infertility are due to other factors. Causes include pelvic injuries, infections, STDs, and lifestyle choices. Poor habits like eating junk food, smoking, drinking alcohol, and inadequate sleep can reduce sperm count and damage sperm quality.

Other Health Problems Do Not Affect Fertility

Several health issues can negatively impact male fertility. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and liver cirrhosis can lead to problems such as retrograde ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Medications for these conditions may also harm sperm quality. Additionally, cancer and its treatments, including chemotherapy, can cause infertility. If undergoing chemotherapy, consider fertility preservation beforehand.

Weight Does Not Affect Fertility

Weight significantly impacts fertility.

Obesity causes hormonal imbalances, increasing estrogen (a female hormone) and reducing testosterone (a male hormone). This imbalance can lead to reduced sperm production and even some feminine characteristics. Conversely, being underweight can also disrupt hormones and lower testosterone levels, making it harder to conceive. Both obesity and being excessively thin can negatively affect fertility.

Diet Does Not Affect Male Fertility

Your sperm responds to what you eat.

Certain foods can boost sperm production and improve sperm quality. The male body produces new sperm daily, and switching to a sperm-friendly diet can quickly enhance sperm quantity and quality. However, it takes about 2–3 months for sperm to mature and appear in semen. Conversely, poor eating habits can lead to poor sperm quality. Be mindful of your diet to support optimal sperm health.

Exercise Is Good For You

TREATMENT FOR MALE FERTILITY PROBLEMS

Male fertility problems may vary in type, but are all related to the sperm in some way or the other. It has to do with the quantity of sperm or the quality of it.

The most common conditions for male infertility are:

There are a number of different types of treatments for male infertility to address the various issues faced by couples which impedes them from conceiving. Some of the most highly recommended male fertility treatments are:

IUI :

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a common and popular male fertility treatment due to its simplicity and affordability. Women prefer IUI because it is non-invasive, quick, and painless. During the procedure, sperm is processed to remove unhealthy ones and then injected into the female uterus, where fertilization occurs naturally.

ICSI :

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is used to address severe male infertility when sperm cannot penetrate the female egg on their own. In this procedure, a single sperm is selected and injected directly into the egg to assist with fertilization.

IMSI :

Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI) advances ICSI by using a powerful microscope to examine sperm in detail, including the nucleus. This technique is used when sperm quality is very poor.

IVF TREATMENT AT MEDICOVER FERTILITY

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