Sperm Quality

Spermatogenesis takes roughly 74 days plus transit, so every intervention needs about three months before a repeat analysis is meaningful. Oxidative stress damages sperm DNA and membranes, which is the mechanistic basis for antioxidant trials. Scrotal heat from laptops, hot tubs and tight clothing measurably impairs production, as do smoking, heavy alcohol, anabolic steroids and obesity. Male factor contributes to roughly half of infertility cases, so both partners should be assessed. Persistently abnormal parameters warrant urological evaluation including varicocele assessment and hormonal testing.

1) Stop smoking and avoid recreational drugs, both of which reduce count and increase DNA fragmentation. 2) Reduce scrotal heat: no laptops on the lap, avoid hot tubs and saunas, and wear looser underwear. 3) Reach a healthy weight, since obesity lowers testosterone and impairs parameters. 4) Never use anabolic steroids or testosterone therapy while trying to conceive, as both suppress spermatogenesis and can cause lasting damage. 5) Limit alcohol to moderate intake. 6) Eat an antioxidant-rich diet with adequate zinc, selenium and folate. 7) Exercise moderately, avoiding excessive endurance volume. 8) Allow at least three months before repeat testing, and get a varicocele assessment if parameters stay low.

• •Smoking cessation
• •Scrotal heat avoidance
• •Weight normalisation
• •No anabolic steroids or TRT
• •Alcohol moderation
• •Antioxidant-rich diet
• •Moderate exercise