Tips on improving sperm count and fertility

• Posted on January 10, 2014January 10, 2014
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

In order to get pregnant, a man has to have at least 40 million sperm per ejaculate.

More than 40% of couples who are unable to have children are unable to do so because of problems with the man’s sperm. The sperm count should be the #1 fertility test done when you evaluate your fertility. A sperm analysis is completed through masturbation; it is noninvasive and it guarantees the person getting tested an orgasm. What a great deal!

Temporary reduction in sperm production is related to various causes like heavy duty cycling, exposure to extreme heat, ill fitting briefs, insomnia, performance pressure and emotional stress. All of these are causes of low sperm count in men. However, patients who suffer from this temporary low count can try out some helpful lifestyle changes to boost their sperm count.

About six percent of males between the ages of fifteen and fifty struggle with infertility. Male infertility can be caused by a variety of problems.

A specific cause, such as a varicocele, can be responsible for a low sperm count. A recent study shows that sperm count can be improved by a combination of zinc and folic acid. Low vitamin C has also been implicated in an abnormal sperm count. One all natural vitamin and fertility supplement called FertilAid for men has been found in a study to improve the sperm quality.

A low sperm count can also reflect lifestyle choices that negatively impact male fertility. The following are some that may influence the sperm count:

1. Take a regular vitamin and fertility supplement including folic acid
   
2. Stop smoking because smoking significantly decreases both sperm count and sperm-cell motility.
3. Prevent overheating of the scrotum: An increase of scrotal temperature (caused by tight underwear, long stays in a sauna or Jacuzzi, for example) can impair sperm production.
4. Prevent excessive stress and perform relaxation exercises: Since infertility and life in general can be stressful, learn to relax. Stress is sometimes responsible for certain infertility problems such as hormonal problems.
5. Maintain a healthy weight: Not too under or overweight since weight influences estrogen and testosterone levels.
6. Stop using drugs: Prolonged use of recreational drugs (for example, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine).
7. Stop steroids: Anabolic steroid use (may cause testicular shrinkage).
8. Do not overly exercise: Overly intense exercise (high levels of adrenal steroid hormones can cause a testosterone deficiency).
9. Stay away from Environmental hazards and toxins (such as pesticides, lead, paint, radiation, radioactive substances, mercury, benzene, boron, and heavy metals).
10. Eat well, get hydrated and sleep well. Malnutrition and anemia can negatively affect your sperm count.

-babymed