Tips to Improve Fertility and Reproductive Health in Males

10 May 2025

Are you worried about fertility? Well, you are not alone in this race! Fertility issues have become a growing concern for many males when it comes to starting a family. In fact, most men tend to overlook their reproductive health until they face unexpected challenges.

While most people perceive fertility to be primarily a female problem, this is a misconception. Problems in the male body can equally be responsible for fertility problems within a couple and challenges in conceiving. Research studies show that almost half of the reported cases of fertility issues involve problems with the male body.

Just as you take care of your muscles, heart, and other organs, you should be equally active while caring for your reproductive health. Remember that your everyday choices can largely affect your ability to have children in the future.

Read on this blog to explore more critical insights into male fertility, what factors affect it, and how you can take proper care of male reproductive health to improve your chances of starting a family.

What do you understand by male fertility?

Male fertility means the ability of men to release adequate quantities of healthy sperms which can fertilise an egg. For males and people assigned male at birth (AMAB), fertility depends on the testicles which produce sperms and the ability of the body to deliver the sperms effectively to the female reproductive system.

Male fertility is influenced by a number of factors, from sperm count to motility and quality to how well the sperm swim. Healthy sperms should be well-shaped, plentiful, and strong or potent enough to reach and fertilise an egg. 

What factors influence male fertility?

There are several factors which influence your fertility and contribute to it as well. While some factors are beyond your control such as genetics or age, but you can make changes or adjustments to other factors.

Following are some factors that affect your fertility:

• Age: Although you can produce sperm throughout your life, but the sperm quality can be affected by your age. After 40, sperm quality begins degrading. The genetic set-up of sperms may deteriorate and get more susceptible to risks of damage which cannot be repaired readily. This can ultimately result in a slight increase in the chances of genetic disorders in their offspring.
   
• Lifestyle choices: Fertility is often affected by your daily habits and lifestyle patterns. For instance, consumption of alcohol, tobacco, or marijuana and having an unhealthy diet can cause damage to the sperm quality.
   
• Health history: Certain infections, past surgeries, or medical issues in the pelvic region or groin area can affect your fertility and result in scarring, which in turn blocks sperm. Varicoceles—enlarged veins in the scrotum—can reduce sperm quality and production. So this can be a significant factor responsible for male infertility. Hormonal imbalances such as low testosterone might also lead to low sperm count.
   
• Chemicals and medications: Certain medications like chemotherapy, supplements, or steroids or exposure to toxins in the environment – all these can cause harm to sperms. Make sure to discuss such factors with the healthcare provider when you are considering fertility treatments.
   
• Heat exposure: Cooler temperatures are ideal for the best production of sperms. Some activities like frequent sauna visits or use of hot tub can minimise the sperm production.
   
• Stress and mental health: Chronic stress and anxiety can pose impacts on your hormonal balance and lead to lower sperm production.

How can you improve male fertility?

While some reasons for infertility are beyond our control, there are some other ways as well which can improve your reproductive health:

• Focus on a healthy lifestyle: You should practise having a diet rich in green vegetables, fresh fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains, and engage in regular physical activity. A properly balanced diet and regular exercise do not only support the quality of healthy sperm, but optimise the hormones as well which are necessary for production and maturation of sperms.
   
• Avoid harmful habits: Limit consumption of alcohol,quit smoking habits, and avoid taking recreational drugs. Eliminating these habits improve your fertility and sperm quality.
   
• Stress management: You can try on stress reduction techniques like exercise, therapy, or medication which improve your hormone levels and overall health.
   
• Avoid heat exposure: You must keep your scrotum cool and in optimal condition. You should skip saunas, heated car seats, and Jacuzzi for this. Consider loose fitting underwear for keeping your testicles cool.
   
• Review your medications: Fertility can also be affected by certain supplements and medications. Consult your healthcare provider and look for safer alternatives if you are trying to start a family.
   
• Avoid unverified fertility supplements: Beware of supplements available in the market which claim to improve your fertility. There is currently no strong evidence which shows that supplements have improved fertility in males. Instead, consider consulting a healthcare specialist who can guide you on choosing the right treatment and improve your chances of having a baby.

When should you see a healthcare provider?

If you and your partner have been trying to have a baby since the last 6 to 12 months but are unsuccessful, it may be time to see a fertility specialist or healthcare provider. You should not hesitate when it comes to your fertility or reproductive health, otherwise it may turn into a serious concern over time.

An initial appointment usually involves a physical examination and reviewing your medical history. Some blood tests and basic tests like semen analysis are performed to find out the root cause of your condition. This may include checking for blockages that affect sperm transport.

In cases of hormone therapy, surgery, or treatments with medications, men may improve. Moreover modern day reproductive technologies offer an effective solution – in vitro fertilisation (IVF) – for couples.

While the situation of every individual is unique, it is crucial to timely address fertility problems. The right intervention and support can help overcome various fertility challenges.

Conclusion

Fertility is a vital part of overall health. Taking proper care of your body is an essential indicator that you are ready for parenthood. In case you are planning to start a family or are concerned about your reproductive health, contact our private doctor at London GP Clinic.