Men's Fertility: A Key Focus for Men's Health Month
November marks Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about health issues that affect men, including their fertility. While discussions around fertility often center on women, men play an equally essential role in conception, with male factors contributing to about 30-40% of infertility cases. At Complete Fertility, we encourage men to take proactive steps in understanding and maintaining their reproductive health.
Key Factors Influencing Male Fertility
Men’s fertility relies on several interrelated factors, from sperm health to lifestyle habits.
Sperm Health: Sperm quantity, quality, motility (movement), and morphology (shape) are essential for successful fertilization. Healthy sperm increases the likelihood of conception, while abnormalities in sperm can reduce the chances.
Hormonal Balance: Hormones, especially testosterone, play a significant role in sperm production. Hormonal imbalances, whether due to lifestyle or medical conditions, can impair fertility by reducing sperm production and quality.
Age: While men produce sperm throughout their lives, sperm quality naturally declines with age. Men over 40 may experience a decrease in sperm motility and quality, which can impact fertility.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and exposure to environmental toxins can negatively affect sperm health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and limited exposure to toxins can improve overall reproductive health.
Medical Conditions and Injuries: Conditions like diabetes, obesity, and certain infections can affect fertility. Additionally, injuries or surgeries to the testicular or pelvic area can interfere with sperm production and reproductive function.
Steps to Improve Male Fertility
While some factors impacting fertility are out of one's control, men can take various steps to improve reproductive health:
Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise: A diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains supports hormone balance and sperm production. Regular physical activity also helps manage stress, reduces body fat, and maintains a healthy weight, all of which support fertility.
Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are associated with reduced sperm quality. Reducing or eliminating these habits can improve reproductive outcomes.
Limit Exposure to Environmental Toxins: Chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals found in certain work environments can affect sperm quality. Whenever possible, reduce exposure to these substances and use protective measures.
When to Seek Help
If a couple has been trying to conceive for a year or more without success (or six months if the woman is over 35), it may be time for both partners to seek an evaluation. Taking proactive steps now can make a positive impact on your fertility journey and overall health. At Complete Fertility, our team is here to help guide men through their fertility journey. We offer thorough evaluations, including semen analysis assessments, to pinpoint any issues and explore the best treatment options.
