Male infertility: 7 ways men can take care of their sperm health.
Maintaining sperm health is important for men who are looking to optimise their fertility or overall reproductive well-being. While individual factors can influence sperm health, several general practices can support and improve sperm quality.
During an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Chirag Bhandari, the Founder of the Institute of Andrology and Sexual Health (IASH), provided some valuable tips to help men take care of their sperm health:
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Making healthy lifestyle choices can have a positive impact on sperm health. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and illicit drug use, as these habits can adversely affect sperm production and quality.
- Manage stress levels: Chronic stress can interfere with hormone production and sperm health. Engaging in stress-reducing activities like exercise, meditation, yoga, or pursuing hobbies that help you relax and unwind can be beneficial. Prioritizing self-care and finding healthy outlets for stress can improve both your overall well-being and potentially enhance sperm health.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Both being overweight and underweight can affect sperm quality. Strive to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a well-balanced diet. If you need guidance on weight management, consider consulting with a healthcare professional or a nutritionist.
- Practice safe sex: Protecting yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial, as certain infections can damage sperm health. Consistently and correctly using condoms, especially if you are not in a monogamous relationship or are uncertain about your partner’s sexual history, is essential.
- Limit exposure to environmental hazards: Minimize exposure to environmental factors that can harm sperm health. Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat, such as hot tubs or saunas, and steer clear of toxins like pesticides, chemicals, or heavy metals. If your work or hobbies involve exposure to potentially harmful substances, use protective gear and follow safety guidelines.
- Get regular exercise: Engaging in moderate-intensity exercise on a regular basis has been associated with better sperm quality.
- Schedule regular check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare professional are vital for monitoring your overall health, including reproductive health. Take the opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about your sperm health during these visits.