While women are the ones who carry and give birth to the baby, men have an equally important role in the conception process. If the man is unable to produce good quality sperm, then conception can become quite difficult. The main reasons for male infertility can be low sperm count, slow sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology (size and shape) and poor sperm quality. Here are some factors that affect male fertility and tips that can help a man improve his chances of conceiving.
Healthy body weight
Men who are overweight are more likely to experience fertility difficulties. Being overweight can lead to hormonal imbalances in the body, which in turn can affect sperm count. Obesity can also affect the genetic material in sperm cells leading to poor quality sperm. Being underweight has also been linked to a low sperm count. Maintaining a healthy weight with a balanced diet will allow for the best results in producing the right number of viable sperm.
Moderate exercise
Regular exercise can be beneficial in maintaining an improved sperm count, as well as maintaining normal hormone levels, metabolism and weight. Regular exercise reduces stress and can improve overall health in both men and women. Cardiovascular exercise, such as running, improves the overall health of the heart and blood vessels. If cycling is your outlet, there are "fertility friendly" bike seats that don't constrict and overheat the genitals. While regular exercise is beneficial, overexertion and overtraining can have negative effects on male fertility. This can lead to decreased testosterone production and a decrease in sperm count. Taking performance-enhancing drugs, especially testosterone, can also inhibit fertility through significantly reduced sperm count and shrinking of the testicles.
Age
Women aren't the only ones with a biological clock. As men age, sperm production, motility, and quality may decline. If you are planning to delay fatherhood, it makes sense to have a sperm analysis to look at sperm count, movement and shape. There is also an association between the age of the male partner and a variety of medical conditions in the child. You can also freeze your sperm for later use to ensure the best possible when you are ready to become parents.
Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking, in both men and women, makes it harder to conceive a baby, worsens the results of sperm analysis and increases the chance of miscarriage. Marijuana use also negatively affects sperm health. Heavy drinking can also be a factor in reduced sperm quality and increased miscarriage rates. Men should keep the amount of alcohol to a minimum when trying to conceive.
Boxers Vs Briefs
The much talked about battle of boxers or briefs has been an ongoing topic for quite some time now. Although it is not certain that switching to boxers will increase the chances of a pregnancy, the main point is to reduce the temperature in this area. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to a reduced sperm count. Try to avoid long periods in the hot tub or sauna. Sperm count can return to normal in a few months if men avoid high-intensity heat in this area.
Visit a fertility clinic
If you're trying to conceive without success, seeing a fertility specialist at a fertility clinic can help. The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Fetal Medicine – Dr. Alexandros Traianos offers a variety of treatments for couples who have difficulty conceiving.