There are several factors that positively affect male fertility. While factors such as age, genetics, and health cannot be controlled, there are several things men can do to improve their fertility.
Here are 30 factors that can positively impact male fertility.
1. A Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can improve male fertility. Foods that are high in antioxidants, such as blueberries, cranberries, and nuts, can also improve sperm quality.
2. Exercise Regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise can improve male fertility. Physical activity can help regulate hormones and reduce stress levels that can negatively impact sperm quality.
3. Quitting Smoking
Smoking cigarettes can negatively impact male fertility by reducing sperm count and motility. Quitting smoking can improve sperm quality and overall reproductive health.
4. Avoiding Alcohol and Drugs
Excessive alcohol consumption and illicit drug use can also negatively impact male fertility. Avoiding these substances can improve sperm quality and reproductive health.
5. Managing Stress
Stress can negatively impact male fertility by reducing testosterone levels and sperm quality. Methods to manage stress such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can improve reproductive health.
6. Getting Enough Sleep
Adequate sleep is essential for reproductive health. Sleep deprivation can negatively impact hormone production and sperm quality. Men should aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep per night to improve fertility.
7. Maintaining Healthy Weight
Being underweight or overweight can negatively impact fertility. Men should aim for a healthy body mass index (BMI) range of 18.5 to 24.9 to promote reproductive health.
8. Avoiding Exposure to Toxins
Exposure to toxins such as chemicals, pesticides, and lead can negatively impact sperm quality. Men should minimize exposure to these substances to preserve reproductive health.
9. Taking Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements such as folic acid, zinc, and vitamin D can improve male fertility. Men can speak with their doctor or a nutritionist to determine which supplements are best for their individual needs.
10. Treating Medical Conditions
Medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid disorders can negatively impact male fertility. Treating these conditions can improve reproductive health.
11. Identifying and Treating STIs
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can negatively impact male fertility. Men should be tested for STIs and treated promptly to avoid long-term damage to reproductive health.
12. Undergoing Genetic Testing
Certain genetic conditions can negatively impact male fertility. Men with a family history of these conditions should undergo genetic testing and receive appropriate treatment if necessary.
13. Reducing Exposure to Radiation
Exposure to high levels of radiation can negatively impact sperm quality. Men who work in environments with high levels of radiation should take appropriate precautions to minimize exposure.
14. Avoiding Hot Tubs and Saunas
Excessive exposure to heat can negatively impact sperm quality. Men should avoid spending extended periods in hot tubs and saunas, particularly if they are trying to conceive.
15. Wearing Loose-Fitting Clothing
Tight clothing can raise testicular temperature and negatively impact sperm quality. Men should wear loose-fitting clothing, particularly in hot environments, to promote reproductive health.
16. Avoiding Cycling
Cycling for extended periods can negatively impact sperm quality by raising testicular temperature and putting pressure on the testicles. Men should avoid cycling for long periods if they are trying to conceive.
17. Maintaining Good Dental Health
Poor dental health can negatively impact male fertility. Gum disease and other oral health issues have been linked to reduced sperm quality, so men should maintain good dental hygiene to promote reproductive health.
18. Taking Breaks from Work
Men who work in occupations that require extensive sitting or standing can negatively impact male fertility. Taking frequent breaks to move around and stretch can help improve reproductive health.
19. Limiting Intense Physical Activity
Intense physical activity such as weightlifting can negatively impact male fertility by raising body temperature and reducing sperm quality. Men should limit intense physical activity if they are trying to conceive.
20. Avoiding Tight Underwear
Tight underwear can raise testicular temperature and negatively impact sperm quality. Men should wear loose-fitting underwear to promote reproductive health.
21. Practicing Good Hygiene
Poor hygiene can negatively impact male fertility. Men should practice good hygiene habits, such as regularly washing their hands and showering, to maintain reproductive health.
22. Protecting the Testicles
Injuries to the testicles can negatively impact male fertility. Men should wear protective gear when engaging in activities such as sports to minimize the risk of injury.
23. Drinking Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated can improve reproductive health. Men should drink plenty of water to promote good overall health and improve fertility.
24. Reducing Caffeine Intake
Excessive caffeine intake can negatively impact male fertility by raising body temperature. Men should limit caffeine intake to promote reproductive health.
25. Using Lubricants
Certain lubricants can negatively impact sperm quality. Men should use a fertility-friendly lubricant if necessary when trying to conceive.
26. Avoiding Certain Medications
Certain medications can negatively impact male fertility. Men should speak with their doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medications they are taking to determine if they could potentially impact fertility.
27. Limiting Cell Phone Use
Excessive cell phone use can negatively impact male fertility by increasing electromagnetic radiation exposure. Men should limit cell phone use, particularly when carrying their phone in their pocket.
28. Avoiding Excessive Heat Exposure
Excessive heat exposure, such as from a laptop or other electronic device, can negatively impact sperm quality. Men should avoid using laptops on their lap and take regular breaks to allow their reproductive organs to cool.
29. Seeking Help When Necessary
If a couple has been trying to conceive for a year or longer without success, both partners should seek medical help. A fertility specialist can conduct tests to determine if there are any underlying issues affecting fertility.
30. Supporting Overall Reproductive Health
Men can positively impact their fertility by supporting overall reproductive health. This includes getting regular medical checkups, practicing safe sex, and communicating with their partner about fertility and reproductive health concerns.