Understanding Male Infertility: How Men Can Enhance Chances of Conception

Conception is often seen as a collaborative effort; yet male fertility frequently receives less attention than that of women. While much of the advice around male fertility is well-established, recent scientific advancements and research offer new insights into improving reproductive health.

Understanding Male Infertility

Often overlooked, male fertility contributes to approximately 40-50 per cent of all infertility cases. Common causes of male infertility include hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and physical abnormalities. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, also play a crucial role. Men who smoke and drink alcohol have a 13-17 per cent lower sperm count than non-smokers and non-drinkers. This article explores innovative strategies and emerging research for men looking to optimise their chances of conception.

1. Avoiding substance abuse

Alcohol, tobacco and recreational drugs have been linked to lower sperm quality. These substances increase oxidative stress, leading to DNA fragmentation in sperm. Reducing or eliminating their intake can significantly enhance sperm health and improve the chances of conception.

2. Prioritising health and nutrition

There is emerging evidence suggesting that nutrition and gut health play an important role in fertility. The gut microbiome has an impact on the regulation of hormones, including testosterone which is important for sperm creation. The study of how food interacts with genes called nutrigenomics offers new insights into improving fertility. Men's diets may be enhanced based on specific gene variants. For instance, higher doses of certain antioxidants such as selenium or coenzyme Q10 can reduce oxidative stress based on specific genes, thus improving fertility for certain men.

3. Focus on occupational wellness and sperm health

Workplace environments can significantly impact male fertility, with factors such as heat, radiation and chemical exposure known to reduce sperm quality. Prolonged exposure to heat, particularly from laptops placed directly on the lap, can elevate scrotal temperature and harm sperm production. To mitigate this risk, it is important to use ergonomic practices, such as placing laptops on desks or using cooling pads. Additionally, proper training on safe chemical handling and minimising exposure to hazardous substances can further protect reproductive health. By addressing these factors, men can safeguard their fertility while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

4. Embrace functional fitness

Traditional fitness advice promotes cardio and weightlifting as the basic forms of exercise. However, stress management techniques and functional fitness such as yoga, Pilates, and tai chi have been gaining popularity lately. These activities, in addition to boosting physical fitness, are efficient in lowering cortisol levels, a stress hormone associated with testosterone production.

5. Stay ahead with regular DNA fragmentation testing

Sperm quality evaluation methods have gone beyond traditional semen assessment techniques; the more advanced Sperm DNA Fragmentation test offers further insights into sperm quality. It is worth noting that high rates of DNA fragmentation will impede fertility, even when the basic parameters fall within normal ranges. Such evaluations facilitate targeted approaches such as diet, antioxidant therapies, or even medical interventions.

6. Managing stress and sleep

Chronic stress negatively affects testosterone levels and overall sperm production. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, or engaging in relaxing hobbies can help regulate stress hormones. Additionally, getting at least seven hours of quality sleep each night is essential for hormonal balance and reproductive function.

7. Seek cutting-edge medical interventions

Medical science continues to offer innovative treatments for male infertility. Hormonal therapy can help regulate testosterone levels and improve sperm production. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) increases fertilisation chances by placing concentrated sperm directly into the uterus. For severe infertility, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) involves injecting a single sperm into an egg, improving the odds of conception. 

Surgical procedures such as Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) retrieve viable sperm when structural issues prevent release. Additionally, microfluidic sperm sorting techniques can enhance sperm quality for IVF, while future advancements in gene therapy and stem cell research may provide new solutions for genetic and structural infertility.

Integrating cutting-edge research and technology into standard fertility practices may empower men to enhance their reproductive health in a more efficient manner. Changes in lifestyle and adoption of new technologies will improve the overall well-being of men, allowing them better opportunities of conception. This modern perspective on fertility offers hope and actionable steps for a healthier journey toward parenthood.

Authored by Dr Nandita Palshetkar, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, Medical Director of Bloom IVF, Lilavati Hospital.