When temperatures drop, it's common to wonder if the cold can have any effect on fertility. While there's no need to worry too much – the human body is primed to keep its internal temperature stable – a growing body of studies exploring how climate and seasonal changes can influence reproductive health.
Cold and male fertility
In men, temperature is an important factor. The testicles need to be kept slightly cooler than the rest of the body to produce good quality sperm. That is why they are located outside the abdomen.
While excess heat has been associated with lower semen quality, the evidence is not as clear in the case of very low temperatures. Some studies suggest that exposure to very low temperatures could affect sperm motility and shape, while others point out that during winter seminal parameters tend to improve compared to summer.
How it affects women
In women, cold does not have a direct impact on fertility, as it does not prevent ovulation or implantation. However, it can influence how we feel. During the winter it is common to feel more tired, with higher levels of stress and with a reduction in physical activity, which can lead to less healthy habits. These factors can affect fertility indirectly.
The role of stress and circulation
When it's cold, your blood vessels contract to conserve body heat. This reduces blood supply to some areas of the body, including the pelvis. In addition, the body releases hormones such as adrenaline or cortisol, typical of "cold stress" responses.
If this state is maintained for a long time, it can disrupt hormonal balance and, in the long term, affect reproductive function. Maintaining good circulation, getting enough rest and taking care of your diet is essential during the winter.
Tips for taking care of fertility in winter
- Wrap up warm, especially in the pelvic and lumbar area.
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature and prolonged exposure to intense cold.
- Move daily, even with short walks. Exercise promotes circulation and hormonal balance.
- Eat healthily, with foods rich in antioxidants and B vitamins, which help hormonal balance and energy metabolism.
- Take care of rest and emotional well-being, because stress can affect as much as the weather.
The cold is not a direct enemy of fertility, but it can influence its balance, especially if combined with factors such as stress, tiredness or unhealthy habits. Keeping the body active, well-nourished and protected from the cold helps to preserve good reproductive function even in the coldest months of the year.
Dra. Cristina Guix
Gynecologist expert in fertility in Barcelona IVF
