Male infertility is caused in most cases by poor semen quality that depends on three factors: the number of sperm per ml, its mobility and its morphology. This hinders or even prevents the fertilization of the ovule and with it, pregnancy.
Although it may be due to genetic causes, there are many other external factors that affect the quality of the sperm. Below, we show you all of them and we give you a series of tips to improve semen quality.
Balanced diet
A healthy lifestyle has a lot to do with a man’s fertility. In recent times, different studies have been conducted to determine the way in which diet affects seminal quality. It has been shown that obesity is related to greater difficulty in conceiving. Therefore, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and avoid foods that are high in fat and calories.
In addition, it is important to consume antioxidants such as:
- Beta carotene, present in spinach, carrots and lettuce
- Lutein, present in foods such as lettuce or spinach
- Lycopene, present in tomato and its derivatives
Vitamin C, which occurs naturally in fruits and vegetables, is another contributor to good semen quality. All these nutrients participate in the production of enzymes in the synthesis of DNA, the maturation of sperm and the development of the testicles.
Also important is folic acid, found in legumes, green leafy vegetables and whole grains, since a diet poor in this nutrient favors the fragmentation of DNA.
Alcohol drinking and tobacco
Habitual use of alcohol and tobacco increases the levels of toxic substances in the body that affect sperm production. Therefore, reducing use of alcohol or even avoiding it altogether is important. Numerous studies have shown that the semen of men who do not smoke or drink is better in terms of viability and longevity.
Physical activity
It is advisable to carry out regular physical exercise. A study by the University of Córdoba indicates that the hormonal levels and the characteristics of sperm are better in men who do moderate sports and do not lead a sedentary life.
Excessive physical activity should also be avoided, since the same study also found that the semen quality of some elite athletes is worse due to their high performance training.
Tight clothes
Another tip is to avoid tight clothing because it causes friction on the testicles and increases the temperature of the scrotum, which can worsen spermatogenesis or sperm production.
Electronic devices
It is also not advisable to keep a laptop on the testicular area or keep a mobile phone in the front pocket of your trousers. This can cause an increase in temperature and hinder sperm function.
Stress
Stress is another factor that negatively affects male fertility. There are studies that indicate that in situations of high stress seminal quality is altered. Therefore, it is advisable to use techniques to reduce stress, such as physical exercise, mindfulness, yoga or psychological support.
Sexual activity
Long periods of sexual abstinence can decrease the quality of sperm. Therefore, it is advisable to have sex regularly. The explanation lies in the fact that, when ejaculating daily, sperm do not have time to deteriorate.
If despite all these tips, pregnancy does not come, at Barcelona IVF we can help you. Contact us.