Did you know that up to half of cases of infertility are related to a male factor?
A poor lifestyle may reduce a man’s ability to become a father. Here are some lifestyle factors that are associated with reduced sperm quality and the ability to conceive.
• Fertility decreases with age beyond 40 years in males though the impact is not as marked as in women. Increasing paternal age is associated with increased genetic mutations in the sperm causing infertility and genetic conditions in the off spring such as autism, mental disorder and skeletal problems.
• Smoking (cigarettes, shisha, vape, IQOS) contains nicotine and other toxins. Male offspring of fathers who smoke are also likely to have lower sperm counts.
• Excess alcohol consumption can lead to low testosterone and impotence.
• Obesity may result in high levels of female hormones, less testosterone and sperm DNA fragmentation. It also increases heat to the genital area.
• Recreational drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, opiates (narcotics), and methamphetamines reduce sperm production.
• Androgenic steroids utilized in gyms and some protein shakes can result in small testis that no longer produce sperm.
• Increased scrotal temperature from sauna, tight pants, sitting for long hours, intense cycling, and radiation from electronic gadgets placed on the laps.
• Environmental toxins- pesticides, lead, radiation may harm the testis. It is important to wear protective clothing provided in the workplace.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may damage the tubes that transport sperm. Some evidence suggests that Ureaplasma urealyticum, Trichomonas vaginalis and Chlamydia Trachomatis may impair sperm production, motility and viability. HIV infection and its treatments may alter sperm quality. Be faithful to one partner and use condoms. Early treatment of STIs will reduce harm.
• Chronic disease and their treatments (eg- diabetes, hypertension) may be associated with impotence and ejaculatory dysfunction. A healthy diet combined with physical exercise may prevent or delay the onset of these diseases or reduce medications and their impact. Please note that It is important to take medication as recommended by a medical practitioner when a disease is present.
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