“Exposure to high temperatures for a long time, like in hot tubs, hot baths, or saunas even placing a laptop on your lap can cause the temperature of the testes to become too hot. This could kill sperm and lower sperm count.

“However, this effect is only temporary, and counts will go back to normal once the hot tub is avoided because sperm production takes roughly 72 days. Thus, any insult to this process will take three months to completely resolve,” she said.

She advised men to avoid wearing tight underwear.

“If a man wears tight jeans, bicycle shorts, or leather pants that hold the testicles close against the body, their temperature may rise. This could also happen when a man wears undershorts made of nylon or other artificial fibers, even if they’re not tight.

“Keeping the male genital area cool also helps avoid infections that thrive in warm, moist places,” she said.

On male fertility-friendly lifestyles, she urged men to avoid nicotine, weed, and other substances and adopt healthy lifestyles.

“Smoking may damage blood vessels and disrupt blood flow; leading to impotence. Besides, a good blood supply to the penis is necessary to achieve an erection. 

“Marijuana has been linked to an inability to perform sexually and to reduce fertility. It also has been associated with increased levels of female hormones in men causing the development of abnormally shaped sperm.

“One has to be careful of herbal remedies. Many believe that herbal remedies are natural so they are safe, however, they may interfere with normal reproduction. So before using any medication please review with your doctor.

“Eat more fruits and vegetables, they contain antioxidants which may help protect sperm from cellular damage and keep them strong and speedy.

“Men also need to reduce their stress. Relaxing not only help with the overall sexual experience but help you stay positive through the fertility process,” she said.

According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, infertility and subfertility affect an estimated 48 million couples (about 15 percent) of reproductive age worldwide.

An article by the professional body on its website noted that raising the testicular temperature even two or three degrees centigrade can compromise sperm quality and functionality. 

“Male genital organs hang outside the body, in a scrotal sac with a lower temperate compared to intra-abdominal organs. Raising the testicular temperature even two or three degrees centigrade can compromise sperm quality and functionality. 

“Risk factors may include work in high-temperature professions; professions with long hours in a seating position; tight underwear and use of laptops help on the lap for a long period of time,” it said.

source: Punch