It is no secret that infertility is a rapidly growing problem in our society today. Couples go for years, trying unsuccessfully to conceive.

Numerous factors can cause infertility, from hormonal imbalances to genetic issues, but what about temperature? Did you know that high temperatures can significantly affect male fertility?.

What Is Male Fertility?

Before we dive into how high temperatures can affect male fertility, let’s understand what male fertility is. Male fertility is the capacity of a man to impregnate a female by releasing healthy sperm during sexual intercourse.

Several factors determine the quality of sperm, including mobility, morphology, and sperm count.

How Do High Temperatures Affect Male Fertility?

High temperatures can severely impact male fertility. Scientists consider the optimum temperature for spermatogenesis (the production of sperm) to be between 34°C and 35°C.

Any temperature above or below this range can contribute to decreased sperm production, poor sperm morphology, and slow motility, ultimately leading to infertility.

For instance, when a male takes a hot bath or sauna, the temperature of his scrotum increases up to 5°C. This temperature change causes a decrease in sperm production, leading to fewer viable sperm, reducing the chances of conception.

In extreme cases, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause permanent damage to the sperm-producing cells, leading to a complete loss of sperm production, which is known as azoospermia.

Heat Sources That Can Affect Male Fertility

Men exposed to high temperatures are at risk of infertility. Here are some significant sources of temperature that can affect male fertility:.

1. Smoking

Studies show that smoking can affect male fertility. Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke, like any other toxin, causes oxidative stress, which can lead to damage to the sperm-producing cells, reducing the production and quality of sperm.

It is essential to note that the toxic effects of smoking on sperm can last up to three months after quitting.

2. Laptops

Using a laptop for extended periods on your lap can significantly increase the temperature of your scrotum, reducing sperm production.

In one study, men who used a laptop for over an hour had an average scrotal temperature of 37.4°C, significantly higher than the recommended temperature range of 34°C – 35°C. To reduce the risk of infertility, it is best to use a laptop on a desk or tabletop.

3. Tight Clothing and Underwear

Wearing tight clothing and underwear can increase the temperature around the scrotum, leading to decreased sperm production. It would be best to wear loose clothing to avoid unnecessary heat.

Cotton underwear is also a good idea, as it allows the skin to breathe and reduces heat for the scrotum.

4. Hot Tubs and Saunas

Hot tubs and saunas are known to increase the temperature of the scrotum significantly. Men who spend more than 30 minutes in a hot tub or sauna are at risk of a decrease in sperm count and quality.

To reduce the risk of infertility, it is advisable to avoid hot tubs and saunas.

5. Age

Age is another factor that affects male fertility. As men age, their testosterone levels decline, affecting sperm production. Also, as men age, they tend to have a decreased production of semen, leading to a decrease in the quality of sperm.

6. Occupational Hazards

Men who work in industries with high temperatures are at increased risk of infertility. Some of these occupations include welding, firefighting, and metallurgy.

Workers exposed to extreme heat over a prolonged period often experience reduced sperm production, reduced sperm count, and sperm motility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, high temperatures can significantly affect male fertility. It is essential to understand the factors leading to a rise in temperature around the scrotum and take steps to mitigate the risks.

Avoiding hot temperatures, quitting smoking, and wearing loose clothing can all help to decrease the temperature around the scrotum, leading to a higher production of healthy sperm. Understanding the factors affecting male fertility can help men make informed decisions regarding their reproductive health.