Latest news with #WorldInfertilityAwarenessMonth
India.com
2 hours ago
- Health
- India.com
Doctor Reveals 5 Everyday Habits That Silently Destroy Male Fertility- Number 3 Affects Millions Daily!
World Infertility Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that fertility challenges are not just a women's issue. In fact, 50% of infertility cases involve male factors, and more often than not, the root cause isn't complex or medical; it's lifestyle choices hiding in plain sight. According to Dr Ila Gupta, Chairperson & Chief IVF Consultant at Pristyn Care Ferticity, many men are unknowingly sabotaging their fertility through everyday habits. 'From poor sleep to constant laptop heat, these seemingly harmless choices create long-term damage to sperm health,' she explains. This month, we spotlight five silent but serious disruptors that could be quietly affecting your chances of becoming a father, and the small, powerful steps you can take to reverse them. 1. Too Much Heat Down There? You're Hurting Your Sperm The Problem: Your testicles need to stay cooler than the rest of your body, about 2-3°C lower, to produce healthy sperm. The culprits: 1. Tight underwear 2. Hot showers and baths 3. Laptop usage on your lap 4. Heated car seats 4. High-temp work environments 'Cumulative heat exposure reduces both sperm count and motility,' warns Dr Gupta. 2. Not Sleeping Enough? Your Hormones Are Suffering Less than 6 hours of sleep disrupts your testosterone production and hormone balance, leading to reduced sperm quality and energy levels. 'We're seeing more hormonal imbalance in men in their 30s and 40s simply due to chronic sleep deprivation,' Dr Gupta notes. Solution: Aim for 7-8 hours of deep, uninterrupted sleep every night. 3. Drinking or Smoking 'Socially'? It's Still Hurting Your Sperm Even moderate alcohol and occasional smoking can lead to abnormal sperm shape and DNA damage, both critical for successful conception. 'Reducing these habits by just 50% can show improvement in semen analysis within 2–3 months,' says Dr Gupta. 4. Too Much Sitting? Your Body's in Reproductive Shutdown Prolonged sitting and low physical activity lead to hormonal issues and reduced testicular function. 'You don't need a gym, just consistency,' says Dr Gupta. 'Brisk walks, stairs, and standing breaks are enough to boost circulation and hormone health.' 5. Stressed All the Time? It's Killing Your Fertility Quietly Chronic stress increases cortisol, which interferes with your reproductive hormones and reduces sperm production. 'Often the problem isn't physical, it's emotional and mental overload,' Dr Gupta explains. Try this: 1. Identify stressors 2. Create digital boundaries 3. Communicate openly 4. Unplug intentionally The Good News: Most Fertility Damage Is Reversible 'Fertility optimisation doesn't always require medical procedures,' Dr Gupta emphasises. 'It starts with awareness and lifestyle changes.' A comprehensive semen analysis is quick, affordable, and provides critical insights. If you've been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success, now's the time to take action. Male Fertility Deserves Equal Focus The road to conception is a two-person journey. By understanding how daily habits influence fertility, men can take back control, and support a healthy pregnancy journey for both partners. The waiting helps no one. The solution could be in your routine.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Male infertility: 5 lifestyle factors that could be hurting your fertility
Medical experts are drawing attention to an often-overlooked aspect of reproductive health during World Infertility Awareness Month: male infertility. While discussions often center on female infertility, about one-third of infertility cases are related to male factors, according to ABC News medical contributor Dr. Alok Patel. "When we think about fertility, there's a lot of focus placed on females," says Patel. "But male issues can include problems with sperm volume or quality, congenital obstructions, infections, and various underlying medical conditions." Several common lifestyle factors can significantly impact male reproductive health. Recent research suggests marijuana use may be associated with impaired male fertility by decreasing sperm volume, affecting sperm morphology and disrupting hormone balance. Patel advises limiting cannabis use when trying to conceive. MORE: Amber Alert issued for missing Idaho teens linked to FLDS group Along with cannabis, alcohol consumption and smoking can be detrimental to fertility. Toxins from smoking, for instance, can directly damage sperm DNA. Physical health plays a crucial role too -- being overweight and having inadequate physical activity can negatively impact fertility. Even high stress levels can affect reproductive health, making stress management an essential consideration. "If you're trying to improve fertility, focus on eating a regular diet, exercising, managing stress, and reducing both cannabis and alcohol use," Patel recommended. "It's also important to have an open conversation with your doctor, especially if you're using substances for medical reasons." Speaking of health management, recent studies have revealed promising developments in other areas of medical science. Research has shown that medications prescribed for individuals with ADHS were associated with lower risks of self-harm and accidents, demonstrating the importance of proper medical treatment in overall safety and well-being. Additionally, for those looking to boost their cognitive function, a new study suggests that strategic power naps might be the answer. German researchers found that short afternoon naps were associated with enhanced problem-solving abilities and creativity -- though Patel advises keeping these naps to 20 to 30 minutes to avoid disrupting nighttime sleep patterns.
India.com
2 days ago
- Health
- India.com
Smoking, Booze, And Burnout Are Destroying Male Fertility - Expert Reveals Hidden Damage Before It's Too Late
While infertility is often seen as a 'woman's issue,' science tells a different story; up to 40% of infertility cases are due to male factors. Yet, men continue to unknowingly harm their fertility through everyday habits like smoking, regular alcohol consumption, and unchecked stress. In honour of World Infertility Awareness Month this June, we turned to Dr Sunita Arora, Senior Director of IVF at Bloom IVF (Fortis La Femme), who breaks down how these three lifestyle choices work together to create a perfect storm for male reproductive health. And her warning is clear: these seemingly 'normal' behaviors could be costing men their chances of becoming fathers. Dr Sunita reveals, "Think of your sperm as messengers carrying precious cargo. Now imagine sending them through polluted air, soaked in ethanol, with anxiety sitting on their back like a stubborn passenger. That is the impact of this toxic trio." Effects Of Smoking On Male Fertility Dr Sunita says, "Beyond the stained fingers and short breath, cigarettes quietly destroy sperm quality. Toxins such as cadmium and lead enter the bloodstream, reducing sperm count and damaging their ability to swim properly. Worse still, they can cause genetic changes." A 2022 study in Reproductive Toxicology revealed that smokers have significantly higher sperm DNA fragmentation, which can lead to reduced chances of conception or miscarriage. ROS (reactive oxygen species) levels significantly increase in blood as a result of smoking, leading to all consequences. Effects Of Alcohol On Male Fertility "A casual glass on a Friday night might seem harmless, but regular consumption tells a different story. Alcohol lowers testosterone levels, which are essential for sperm production. It also impairs liver function, leading to hormonal imbalances. Excessive Alcohol intake is directly linked not only to sperm quality and number but with their motility also and hence direct impact on male fertility. It also may lead to erectile dysfunction in men," reveals Dr Sunita. Effects Of Stress On Male Fertility Stress, not the kind that motivates you to finish your taxes, but the deep, persistent kind that follows you to bed and wakes up with you. Dr Sunita says, "Chronic stress increases cortisol, a hormone that directly competes with testosterone. The result is low libido, irregular hormone cycles, and reduced sperm health. Stress also fuels the urge to smoke and drink, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break." Together, smoking, alcohol, and stress form a kind of conspiracy against male fertility. They are not loud threats, but slow, consistent ones. They wear you down while you are looking the other way. This World Infertility Awareness Month, we urge men to pause and reflect. Have your habits slowly become your hurdles? Do not wait for a lab report to start taking charge of your health. Every small step, a cigarette avoided, a drink skipped, a walk taken instead of worrying, can make a real difference. And here is a question to carry with you. Are your everyday choices supporting the future you dream of?
2 days ago
- Health
Male infertility: 5 lifestyle factors that could be hurting your fertility
Medical experts are drawing attention to an often-overlooked aspect of reproductive health during World Infertility Awareness Month: male infertility. While discussions often center on female infertility, about one-third of infertility cases are related to male factors, according to ABC News medical contributor Dr. Alok Patel. "When we think about fertility, there's a lot of focus placed on females," says Patel. "But male issues can include problems with sperm volume or quality, congenital obstructions, infections, and various underlying medical conditions." Several common lifestyle factors can significantly impact male reproductive health. Recent research suggests marijuana use may be associated with impaired male fertility by decreasing sperm volume, affecting sperm morphology and disrupting hormone balance. Patel advises limiting cannabis use when trying to conceive. Along with cannabis, alcohol consumption and smoking can be detrimental to fertility. Toxins from smoking, for instance, can directly damage sperm DNA. Physical health plays a crucial role too -- being overweight and having inadequate physical activity can negatively impact fertility. Even high stress levels can affect reproductive health, making stress management an essential consideration. "If you're trying to improve fertility, focus on eating a regular diet, exercising, managing stress, and reducing both cannabis and alcohol use," Patel recommended. "It's also important to have an open conversation with your doctor, especially if you're using substances for medical reasons." Speaking of health management, recent studies have revealed promising developments in other areas of medical science. Research has shown that medications prescribed for individuals with ADHS were associated with lower risks of self-harm and accidents, demonstrating the importance of proper medical treatment in overall safety and well-being. Additionally, for those looking to boost their cognitive function, a new study suggests that strategic power naps might be the answer. German researchers found that short afternoon naps were associated with enhanced problem-solving abilities and creativity -- though Patel advises keeping these naps to 20 to 30 minutes to avoid disrupting nighttime sleep patterns.
IOL News
13-06-2025
- Health
- IOL News
World Infertility Awareness Month: Experts reveal 5 common factors that affect male fertility
We need to normalise conversations about male fertility Image: Alex Green/pexels Infertility is a deeply personal and emotional journey that often goes unspoken, yet it affects millions of individuals and couples worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 6 adults globally will face infertility issues at some point in their lives. June marks World Infertility Awareness Month, a time to shed light on this global health challenge while encouraging open conversations and proactive solutions. Importantly, infertility is not just a women's issue; male fertility factors account for 40% of cases, yet they often remain overlooked. Here, we explore some of the most common factors affecting male fertility and why awareness is critical for couples hoping to conceive. 1. Low sperm count Low sperm count, or oligospermia, is one of the leading causes of male infertility. This condition occurs when the concentration of sperm in semen is below the threshold needed for successful conception. According to Dr Anthony Picton, a fertility specialist at Vitalab Fertility Clinic in Johannesburg, many men are unaware that sperm count is affected both internally and externally by factors such as lifestyle choices, hormonal imbalances, and exposure to toxins. Studies also highlight the impact of heat exposure, with professions like mining and farm work creating conditions that may impair sperm production. 2. Lifestyle choices Excessive alcohol use can lower testosterone levels and reduce sperm production. Similarly, marijuana commonly used recreationally has been shown to impair sperm motility and overall quality. "Men are often unaware of how these habits impact their fertility," says Dr Lusanda Shimange-Matsose, director at Medfem Fertility Clinic. "The choices you make today can impact your ability to conceive tomorrow. Moderation and mindfulness are key." Stress, a silent contributor to infertility, is another factor affecting South African men. High-pressure environments, financial strain, and societal expectations to provide for a family can all contribute to hormonal imbalances that disrupt sperm production. 3. Testosterone supplementation and fertility misconceptions Many men turn to testosterone supplements to address low energy levels, muscle loss, or reduced libido. However, these treatments can have the unintended side effect of suppressing natural sperm production. Picton warns that testosterone therapy is often prescribed without sufficient explanation of its impact on fertility, saying, "Men need to understand the risks before pursuing these treatments." For South Africans, where access to over-the-counter supplements is common, education about reproductive health should be prioritised. Fertility experts recommend consulting a doctor before taking any hormone-based treatments, especially for younger men planning to start families. 4. Age and health factors beyond the physical Unlike women, who are often reminded of the biological clock, men tend to believe that age doesn't affect their fertility. However, sperm quality declines with age, increasing the risk of genetic abnormalities and reducing the chances of conception. Shimange-Matsose explains, 'While men produce new sperm daily, factors like age, chronic illnesses and lifestyle habits can negatively affect sperm quality.' In South Africa, high rates of conditions such as diabetes and hypertension further complicate male fertility. Men often focus on their physical health without considering how it relates to reproductive health. Regular health screenings and early interventions can help address these issues. 5. Environmental and occupational hazards Occupational hazards unique to South Africa, such as exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and radiation, can also impair male fertility. Miners, farmers, and industrial workers are particularly vulnerable. Shimange-Matsose says, 'We often see men who are unaware that their work environments are contributing to their fertility challenges. Protective measures and regular health checkups are crucial.' Infertility remains a taboo subject in many South African communities, where women are often blamed first when conception fails. Yet male infertility is responsible for nearly half of all cases. 'We need to normalise conversations about male fertility,' says Picton. 'It's a shared journey, and both partners should be evaluated when there are challenges conceiving.' The emotional toll of infertility, feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and frustration, can strain relationships and mental health. Shimange-Matsose advises couples to seek both medical and emotional support. Fertility clinics often offer counselling to help navigate this challenging process.
