The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

MEN must consider lifestyle choices when assessing their level of fertility. Although they are naturally endowed with millions of sperm, their lifestyle choices have an impact on the overall health of their semen.

Questions of fertility are often explored in the context of women’s health. However, the issue is equally important for men.

Local urologist Dr Robin Roberts says men must consider how their lifestyle choices impact their fertility.

Men are confronted daily with choices about what to eat and drink. Dr Roberts said those choices can enhance or deplete the quantity, quality, and movement of sperm.

“When a man has sex and he ejaculates, he releases approximately 5 mls (one teaspoonful) on average of a white fluid called the seminal fluid. In each of the 5 mls of the fluid released during sex, there is an average of 20 million to 60 million sperms. In total then, there are an estimated 100 million to 300 million sperms in the ejaculate,” said Dr Roberts.

“Why do we need all these sperms? The research in infertility suggests that when the count is less than 20 million per ml, the chances that the couple will secure a pregnancy is reduced. It is a rough journey for the sperm to reach their intended goal – to reach the female egg. Many die along the way. Many sperms are required such that one can get through,” he told Tribune Health.

While no one factor has been scientifically linked to a reduction in sperm count, according to Dr Roberts, a man’s overall physical health is believed to impact sperm health. He referenced popular beliefs around the impact of alcohol, smoking and other consumption habits, saying there is no conclusive evidence to confirm such theories.

However, he said maintaining a healthy body weight; managing stress and avoiding sexually transmitted diseases are all important factors in safeguarding male fertility, said Dr Roberts.

When a man’s sperm count falls below a certain level - less than 20 million per ml - it is more difficult for sperm to reach the female egg for fertilization, he said.

To increase fertility, men can take a proactive approach, and adopt strategies, such as avoiding toxins, being cautious with medication and staying cool, according to some experts.

“The internet and those who are selling all the natural stuff will tell you of all the things and foods that can increase sperm count. The fact of the matter is that there has not been any scientific study to date to show that any medications, drugs or vitamins can increase the sperm count in a man who has a low count with any degree of reliability that it will do consistently and by how much. If it does, the medical community will challenge its scientific reliability,” said Dr Roberts.

According to the Mayo Clinic, international leaders in medical care, research and education, sperm can be vulnerable to environmental factors and toxic chemicals.

Increased scrotal temperature can hamper sperm production, according to Mayo Clinic research. To protect fertility, men should avoid wearing tight underwear or athletic shorts, and avoid placing laptop computers directly on the lap. High temperatures from hot tubs, saunas and steamy baths are also seen as potential risks as they increase scrotal temperature. Men who bike or remain seated for long periods of time are advised to take frequent breaks.

Certain medications can also contribute to fertility issues. Calcium channel blockers, tricyclic antidepressants and anti-androgens are some of the medications to monitor. Anabolic steroids can have the same effect. Chemotherapy drugs and radiation treatment for cancer can cause permanent infertility. Patients should ask their doctors about the possible impact of prescription drugs on fertility, and the possibility of retrieving and storing sperm before treatment, according to Mayo Clinic research.

Men are also advised to watch out for toxins. Exposure to pesticides, lead and other toxins can affect sperm quantity and quality. If you must work with toxins, do so safely. For example, wear protective clothing and equipment, and avoid skin contact with chemicals.