Male Fertility Issues Are Increasing – Here’s Why

When it comes to fertility, men often get left out of the conversation. But the truth is, men’s fertility is just as important. In the last several years, doctors and researchers have seen an increase in fertility issues in men. It’s not only associated with age and hereditary conditions. The effects of lifestyle, diet, work, and stress management are harming the male reproductive system in ways that are just being uncovered.

At this time, you may be asking the question, ‘What is the reason for the decline, and what can I do as a man?’

Let’s take a closer look.

A Drop That Can’t Be Ignored

Studies from the past few decades have shown a steady decline in sperm count and sperm quality. And it’s not just numbers on paper. Clinics are seeing more men with fertility-related concerns than ever before.

So what is behind this?

Men’s reproductive health is being affected more by modern routines than many realize. A few of the main reasons are:

• Too much sitting and not enough moving: Long hours at desks, too little movement, and weight gain can disrupt hormone levels that support sperm production.
• Poor nutrition: Diets high in processed food, sugar, and alcohol can affect overall health along with fertility.
• Smoking, alcohol and drug use: All are strongly associated with decreased sperm count and reduced sperm movement.

Exposure to Harmful Chemicals

Every day life now includes more exposure to chemicals than before. Substances like BPA (found in plastics), pesticides in food, heavy metals, and even air pollution can harm sperm. These toxins may disrupt hormones or damage sperm at the DNA level.

Stress Affects More Than Mood

Stress affects much more than just mood; it can also affect how your body functions. Long-term stress can have an impact on a man’s testosterone and sex drive. Stress can also lead to other unhealthy behaviours – poor sleep, smoking, and overeating, which also affect fertility.

Health Issues Can Sometimes Be Overlooked

There are some health issues that can have an impact on sperm without much obvious indication. They are:

• Varicocele (swollen veins in the scrotum)

• Hormonal issues

• Infections or past procedures

• Chronic conditions (diabetes)

Most either show no signs or do not reveal themselves until one starts having issues related to fertility.

Every day, Heat Can Hurt Sperm Health

Placing laptops on your lap. Keeping phones in your pocket. Sitting in hot tubs too often. All of these can raise the temperature around the testicles. And since sperm needs a slightly cooler environment to develop properly, too much heat can affect its quality.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for more than a year (or six months if she is over 35), it’s time to consult a fertility specialist. At Sugam Hospital, our team includes the best urologist in Chennai, We perform comprehensive evaluations, advanced testing, and customized treatment for male fertility issues.

Taking action early can make a big difference.