November marks Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of men’s health and encouraging early detection and treatment of disease. When we think about men’s health, we often focus on heart health, prostate cancer, or physical fitness. However, one crucial aspect that’s often overlooked is male fertility, which can have a significant impact on a couple’s ability to conceive.

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Understanding Male Fertility

Did you know that about 20% of infertile couples are found to have a male factor as the sole cause of infertility, and another 30% have both male and female factors? This means that male fertility plays a critical role in the chances of a couple getting pregnant. If a heterosexual couple is having no success in getting pregnant after six months of trying—or sooner if the female partner is over 35—it’s time to see a fertility specialist.

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How Is Male Fertility Evaluated?

The first step in evaluating male fertility is a medical history and physical examination. This is typically followed by a semen analysis, which assesses the count and quality of sperm. At Wellnest, we’ll perform a semen analysis to assess sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape). Male fertility factors account for nearly half of all infertility cases, so this diagnostic testing for infertility is an essential part of your comprehensive fertility evaluation. Our fertility specialists will then review the results with you and discuss any necessary steps moving forward.

It’s important to remember that sperm take about 70 days to develop and mature, so factors like illness, medications, or lifestyle changes in the preceding months can affect the results. If abnormalities are found, further testing, including hormone assessments, may be needed.

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Lifestyle Factors Affecting Male Fertility

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve sperm quality and boost the chances of conception. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Diet and Weight: Obesity has been linked to impaired sperm production. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants, and maintaining a healthy weight, can improve sperm health.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve overall health but should be balanced to avoid excessive physical stress, which can have a negative impact.
• Smoking and Substance Use: Smoking, anabolic steroids, testosterone supplements, and recreational drugs can severely affect sperm quality. Men trying to conceive should quit smoking and avoid these substances.
• Heat Exposure: Avoiding activities that increase scrotal temperature, such as using laptops on your lap or frequent hot tub use, can help maintain healthy sperm.

How Often Should You Have Intercourse?

Timing is essential when trying to conceive. Couples should aim to have intercourse two to three times per week during the fertile window. Frequent, regular intercourse is recommended, as long periods of abstinence can decrease sperm quality.

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Make Men’s Health Month Count

Fertility is a significant component of men’s overall health, and early action can make a difference. If you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success, consider scheduling a male sperm test today. Understanding your fertility health is the first step to making informed decisions and optimizing your chances of starting a family.

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Take the Next Step: Book Your Male Sperm Testing Today. Your journey to parenthood starts with awareness and proactive care. Book now.

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Reference and for more information, visit ASRM’s Reproductive Facts.

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