How Can Men Increase Fertility In The UK?

Infertility in the UK is a significant problem for couples who want to conceive a child. According to studies, around 7% of men in the UK are affected by infertility, and up to 5% of heterosexual couples' fertility problems are caused by the male partner. There are various ways in which males can boost or increase their fertility status and produce quality, fertile sperm for impregnation.

 

How Is Fertility In Males Determined?

To determine the fertility of a male, the sperm of the male needs to be assessed and evaluated. The quality of the sperm will thus be an indicator of fertility.

1. Quantity

The amount of sperm in one ejaculation must be at least fifteen million sperm per millilitre. The reason is that the fewer sperm seen per millilitre, the lower the chances are to impregnate the female or fertilise her egg.

2. Movement

The motility of the sperm is quite important since this is what allows the sperm to travel through the cervix to the fallopian tubes to fertilise the egg. The upper threshold for non-moving sperm to still be considered fertile is 60% of the sperm in one ejaculate.

3. Morphology

The structure of the sperm is also important as this allows it to survive the female genital tract environment. The sperm usually have an oval head and a long tail that allows it to propel itself forward. 

 

What Should Be Avoided to Produce Fertile Sperm?

There are a few things that men can do to avoid becoming infertile. Taking precautions to prevent future infertility is the key to a healthy and fertile reproductive life.

Keep Away From Smoking

Low sperm counts in males are strongly associated with smoking cigarettes. If you are a regular smoker, your doctor may assist you to quit smoking.

Limit Alcohol

Testosterone production decreases with excessive consumption of alcohol. This may also lead to a decrease in the production of sperm and the inability to get an erection.

Scrotal Temperature

Sperm production is affected by high temperatures. Some everyday occurrences may affect the production such as tight-fitting underwear,  saunas, long periods of sitting, placing a laptop on your lap, and hot showers or baths. Keeping it cool downstairs will normalise the production of healthy sperm.

Toxins & The Environment

Toxins such as pesticides may affect the sperm quality and the quantity that is produced. Lead is another element that can be toxic to the production of sperm. Always wear personal protective clothing when working with toxic or hazardous materials, chemicals, or solutions.

Medications

Certain medications and medication groups may affect fertility as well. Some known medications like tricyclic antidepressants, anti-androgens, opioids, and calcium channel blockers. Bodybuilders and gym junkies that use anabolic steroids may also be affected. Avoid using illegal drugs as well as this may influence fertility too.

 

What Can We Do to Increase Fertility Levels?

After delving into the topic of what should be avoided to increase fertility levels, let’s look at ways to increase the fertility of the male. There are various products that may assist in increasing fertility but also leading a healthy lifestyle will be the first option to increase quality, healthy, fertile sperm production. There are ways to restore fertility as well by using medication or having surgery.

Healthy Body Weight

Maintaining a healthy body weight prevents a number of health issues from developing. As the weight increases of the male and the BMI (body mass index) rises, sperm motility and count reduce.

You Are What You Eat

Eating healthy has unlimited benefits for an individual’s health. Antioxidants found in a variety of vegetables and fruits may improve sperm health.

Sharing Is Not Caring

STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) may cause infertility in men. Infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia are transmitted sexually when people have intercourse without a condom or femidom. To prevent fertility in this way, limit the number of sexual partners you are having sex with, ensuring that you always use a condom for protection or stay in a sexual relationship with only one partner.

Stress Less

Sexual function and performance can be affected by high-stress levels. Sexual desire may be decreased and the production of the hormone testosterone. The production of sperm is also affected negatively.

Get Physical

Exercise will always be one of the first suggestions on a list to get healthier. Exercise will also assist in reducing stress, reducing weight, and protecting sperm.

 

Fertile Sperm For Donation

If you are a male that does not want to have your own children or if you want to donate sperm to assist other couples to conceive a child, it is important that sperm be fertile and of good quality. Sperm donation has its own criteria to determine if you would be a good candidate but by avoiding certain lifestyle mannerisms and attaining some beneficial and healthy habits, you could be considered a good candidate.  In the UK, you cannot get paid for your donation but they will pay £35 towards your travelling fees to the clinics per visit.