8 Facts About Male Fertility That Will Surprise You

In the past 30 years, couple infertility rates have more than doubled, with male fertility
factors contributing to up to 50% of those rates. Fertility rates are based on issues affecting
both the male and female parties involved.

In fact, one-third of infertility cases are attributed to male conditions. This can include low
sperm count, abnormal shape of the sperm, poor motility, or ineffective sperm movement.
Fertility treatments such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and in-vitro fertilization
(IVF) can help with these infertility issues.

The age of the partners is significant with fertility as both the sperm and egg count naturally
lower over time. While most fertility centres require the sperm donor to be under a certain
age, there are a selection of men that are successful in conception of their partner later in life.

The lifestyle of both parties must be considered when discussing fertility. Research and
clinical studies have proven the health and habits of a male can have a profound effect on the
condition of his sperm. From excessive use of tobacco and alcohol to occupational hazards,
the male’s life choices can help or harm his fertility.

Just as knowing when a woman is most fertile, understanding when men are most fertile
plays a role in a successful outcome. Below, we will look at the top eight facts about male
fertility that may surprise you!

Sperm Count and Heat

For years it has been clinically proven that high temperatures can have an adverse effect on
the sperm count and the quality of sperm produced. The testicles have a maintained
temperature of 35 degrees Celsius. Introduction of additional heat from external sources as
much as two degrees higher can inhibit sperm production, known as spermatogenesis.
This is why male fertility and hot tub use do not mix. The heat from baths, steam showers,
and saunas is recommended to be avoided.

Male Fertility and Tight Clothing

This rising temperature of the testicles is why male fertility and tight underpants can be a
topic of conversation with your fertility specialist. There has been a long-standing unofficial
“guideline” for men to wear boxers as opposed to briefs when the time comes to begin
starting a family. Some people believe the boxers should become a regular staple in men
under the age of 30.

While studies have shown the effects of heat stress on the spermatogenesis, more studies are
needed to understand why the small increase in heat by wearing tight clothing specifically
influences the possibility of infertility rates.

Male Fertility and Seasons

For years there has been debate as to the connection between male fertility and the changing
seasons. In 1991, and again in 2001, studies uncovered participants had a reduction in sperm
count during the warmer summer months in comparison to winter months.
Can the calendar season be blamed for a male’s fertility? It has yet to be proven if heat of the
summer months or the timing of conception preference contributed to the results.

Male Fertility and Frequency of Sex

The fertility of a woman follows a precise charting of dates, particularly when undergoing
fertility treatments. Ensuring the timing of sexual engagement within the three days before
ovulation has been showed to result in a higher chance of becoming pregnant.

Male fertility isn’t as clear cut and concise. Whether a man has less or more sex will not
affect his fertility. It is true that sperm count rises when ejaculation is less frequent, but the
potency of the sperm does not play a role.

Aluminum and Male Fertility

Research has shown there may be a connection between exposure to the components of
aluminum and male fertility, particularly when it comes to lowering sperm count. The study
focused on the discovery of high concentrations of aluminum in semen specimens collected.
The aluminum in play concerns the use of aluminum cans, pots, and pans.

Vaping and Male Fertility

Male fertility has been linked to various lifestyle choices such as vaping. Examples include e-
cigarettes, pens, and hookahs. Low sperm count, motility, and reduced quality of sperm has
been suggested to be caused by use of vaping devices.
The use of the electronic device itself is currently under study in regards with fertility issues.
The use of tobacco has already been shown to inhibit adequate delivery of oxygen by red
blood cells, causing infertility issues such as inflammation.

Laptop and Male Fertility

Heat adversely affects male fertility which is why the use of laptops have been advised
against when couples are trying to successfully conceive. Laptops emit a form of heat. It is
recommended to place a board or material to act as interference between the laptop and the
male groin area.
It should be noted there is no significant data to support this, but males may want to take any
and all precautions.

Male Fertility and Coffee

For years men have been told to reduce or stop having regular consumption of coffee,
particularly because of the caffeine content. To flip the script, in some studies the
consumption of caffeine, as the amount in regular coffee, has been shown to increase sperm
motility.
While the efficiency of the sperm’s movement is improved, sperm count, and quality was not
shown to be changed in the clinical studies.

Learn More About ONE Fertility Kitchener Waterloo’s Embryo Storage Facility

At ONE Fertility Kitchener Waterloo, our highly trained fertility specialists offer
compassionate fertility care to our male and female clientele. We provide expert fertility care,
counselling, and state-of-the-art fertility and IVF clinic equipment.

Our facility provides a safe and effective embryo storage along with resources for cryo-
preserved semen and cryo-preserved embryos. This allows for preservation of embryos to be
later thawed and transplanted into the uterus. This process can be provided for many years.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you on your fertility journey.