For many people, the arrival of winter is associated with the start of the ski and snowboard season. These sports offer an excellent opportunity to exercise during the colder months of the year while enjoying nature.
Those who want to conceive may have doubts about whether winter sports can affect their fertility. In this article we explore the potential impact of snow sports activities on reproductive health, as well as the importance of moderate exercise; and we offer practical tips for staying active and healthy during winter season safely.
The impact of cold on reproductive health
Environmental temperature can affect reproductive health, although moderate cold does not appear to negatively affect it.
In men, moderately low temperatures have been seen to have a positive effect on sperm quality, with increased sperm motility and a reduction in abnormalities. Instead, extreme temperatures, both high and low, have a negative impact on overall health, as well as sperm quality. This is because the testicles need to maintain a slightly lower temperature than the rest of the body to produce sperm. Extreme cold can reduce the temperature of the testicles too much and affect the quantity and quality of sperm produced.
There is no evidence of the effect of cold on female fertility, although it should be noted that extreme cold can have a negative impact on overall health, which can temporarily affect fertility.
Importance of moderate exercise
Regular exercise is very beneficial for overall health, which can indirectly improve fertility. Moderate exercise improves cardiovascular health, strengthens bones and muscles, and helps control body weight. In addition, it reduces stress, improves sleep quality and mood. All of this helps to improve fitness and well-being, which in turn supports reproductive health.
However, it should be noted that intensive and excessive exercise can have a negative effect on fertility. While in women it can cause alterations in the menstrual cycle and affect ovulation, in men it can affect sperm production and quality. For this reason, when you want to conceive it is important to adapt the intensity of the exercise.
Winter sports are an excellent way to stay active and, if practiced in moderation and avoiding overexertion, do not have any negative effects on fertility.
Injury Prevention
Falls and accidents during winter sports can cause fractures and other injuries, which if severe may require medical treatments that affect fertility.
To minimize the risk of injury, it is important to wear the right protective gear, have correct training and technique, avoid overloading the body, and stretch before and after activity to reduce the risk of muscle injuries.
Practical tips for staying active and healthy during the winter season
To ensure that couples looking to conceive can enjoy winter activities safely, the following tips can be followed:
Wear appropriate clothing, to avoid excessive heat loss and be protected.
Maintain a balanced diet and hydrate properly.
Plan both sports activities and rest periods to avoid overloading the body.
Consult with a doctor for guidance on physical activity and fertility and have medical checkups to assess overall health.
Couples who want to conceive can enjoy winter sports without compromising their fertility, by taking the right precautions. Protecting yourself from the cold, avoiding excessive exercise, and preventing injuries are key to staying healthy and enjoying winter safely.
