Infertility is an increasingly common issue among couples worldwide and is attributed to a variety of factors including stress, age, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and environmental factors.

However, it is not just these factors that cause infertility – but often the hidden culprits that go unnoticed. In this article, we will explore five uncommon factors that can murder sperm, often without us even realizing it.

1. Excessive Heat

Testicles require a lower temperature than the body to produce sperm effectively. When the testicles are exposed to higher temperatures, the quality and quantity of sperm fall rapidly.

Men who frequently take hot baths, use saunas or hot tubs or work in a hot environment (such as chefs and bakers) may experience this issue. Tight-fitting clothing and undergarments can also raise the temperature of testicles. Therefore, if you are looking to improve your chances of conceiving, it might be time to throw out those tight briefs and switch to boxers.

2. Alcohol Consumption

Although moderate alcohol consumption might not have serious implications on sperm quality or count, heavy alcohol consumption can. Studies have proved that both quantity and quality of sperm are worth considering.

According to one study, men who drank heavily over the duration of six months increased their time to pregnancy with their partners. Therefore, it is essential to moderate alcohol intake as a practical step to avoid the damage caused by excessive alcohol drinking.

3. Exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA)

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical found in many products, including plastics and cans. Unfortunately, recent studies suggest that BPA can increase DNA damage in sperm, reduce sperm count and fertility.

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According to a study, men exposed to higher BPA levels had a significantly lower sperm count than men with lower levels of exposure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest other chemicals and substances that may cause harm to your sperm, so it’s better to be cautious and avoid these products.

4. Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) disrupt the natural hormone balance of the body, and this can lead to fertility issues. EDCs are present in everyday products such as plastic food containers, cosmetics, pesticides and flame retardants.

EDCs mimic the hormone estrogen, and over time, this can lead to a drop in hormone levels, especially testosterone, which can directly impact fertility. It is essential to avoid products that contain EDCs, such as some non-stick cookware, and eat organic food whenever possible, if you want to improve your sperm health.

5. Mobile Phone Usage

Mobile phones have become an essential part of our lives, but they emit radiation that may have an impact on sperm health. According to one study, men who kept their phones in their pockets experienced a reduction in sperm motility.

Another study suggested that exposure to electromagnetic radiation emitted from mobile phones might lead to significant decreases in sperm count. However, these studies are not definitive, and further research is needed to understand the relationship between mobile phone usage and sperm health.

Conclusion

Overall, the factors discussed above are uncommon culprits that can murder sperm. While they might not be obviously linked to infertility, they can have a significant impact on sperm count, motility and overall health.

Therefore, being cautious about what you eat, where you work, what you wear, and how you use your mobile phone can all play a vital role in maintaining your sperm health.