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Increasing male fertility

Male infertility is usually associated with a decrease in the number, quality, and motility of sperm.  Since low sperm count and decreased motility, in addition to abnormally shaped sperm are accountable for approximately 40% of  fertility problems, implementing these tips may be worth it to enhance male fertility.

  1. Reduce alcohol consumption. Research has shown that excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to a decrease in normal sperm.
  2. Eat organic foods. The results of one study showed that eating organic fruits and vegetables may increase fertility. Men who had high levels of three common pesticides in their urine were 10 times as likely to have low quality sperm than those who had not been exposed to the chemicals.
  3. Avoid soy.  Soy based foods mimic estrogens in the body and can create hormonal chaos.
  4. Re-evaluate medications. Some prescriptions can decrease fertility in men so check with a doctor or pharmacist to see if these could be an issue.
  5. Don't overheat the testes. Testes are meant to be slightly lower than body temperature for optimal sperm production. Avoiding tight fitting under ware or discontinuing the use of hot tubs and hot baths may increase the production of sperm.
  6. Take vitamins. Vitamin C protects sperm from oxidative damage, B12 can improve sperm count, calcium regulates sperm function, selenium has been proven to significantly increase motility, zinc can improve sperm quality, count, and motility, and vitamin E increases overall fertility. Check with a doctor on the recommended dosage for each vitamin.
  7. Stop smoking. Studies show cigarette smoking may reduce sperm count or cause abnormal sperm.
  8. Time intercourse. Timing intercourse to coincide with ovulation can dramatically increase the chances of pregnancy.
Male infertility can be determined by an inexpensive and easy to perform semen analysis. Consult a doctor if you have been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant for a year, or 6 months if you are 35 or older.
     For more info: See also Increasing Female Fertility, Fertility Myths
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, Houston Pregnancy Examiner

Mary Evett is a freelance writer and stay-at-home mom of three amazing boys under the age of 6. In the rare instances when she's not pregnant or potty training a child, she enjoys doing yoga. Send Mary a message.

Comments

  • Julie Evett Houston Grandparenting Examiner 2 years ago

    good common sense Mary, thanks for the info

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