Men often find themselves grappling with questions about fertility, such as, “Should I be intimate daily?” or “Does my diet really affect sperm health?” To address these concerns, the Intracervical Insemination Podcast invited Dr. Alex Reed, a reproductive urologist, to share valuable insights on managing male factor infertility through lifestyle modifications.
Host:
Let’s delve into some practical solutions for male fertility. Should men steer clear of hormone disruptors like BPA?
Dr. Reed:
“BPA is prevalent in many plastics, which we encounter daily. It mimics estrogen, potentially harming male fertility. While avoiding all plastics is nearly impossible, striving for BPA-free options—especially in food packaging—is wise.”
Host:
What about the timing of sexual activity? Is it better for couples to be intimate every day during the fertile window or to space it out?
Dr. Reed:
“It largely depends on a man’s sperm count. If it’s healthy—around 20-30 million motile sperm—daily intercourse during the fertile window is fine. However, men with lower counts may benefit from waiting every other day to build up sperm.”
Host:
Should men eliminate tobacco, steroids, and recreational drugs from their lives?
Dr. Reed:
“Absolutely. Healthy lifestyle choices directly impact fertility. Tobacco contains harmful substances that can lower sperm count. Occasional smoking might not be a big deal, but heavy smokers should expect fertility challenges. The same goes for marijuana use, which can reduce sperm motility and hormone levels. Steroids, on the other hand, are a definite no-go—they can severely impact sperm production, particularly in younger men.”
Host:
Does alcohol consumption affect male fertility?
Dr. Reed:
“Common sense applies here. Moderate drinking may have some health benefits, but excessive consumption or alcoholism can severely hinder fertility and overall health. A social drink now and then won’t hurt, but heavy drinking is detrimental.”
Host:
Many people talk about maintaining a healthy weight and proper nutrition. What does that mean for you?
Dr. Reed:
“Healthy weight varies per individual. Instead of fixating on BMI alone, focus on being active—climbing stairs, exercising, and keeping a BMI under 25. As for diet, prioritize home-cooked meals over processed foods. Balance is key; there’s no single magic food group. Aim for diverse, reasonable portions, and limit fast food intake.”
Host:
What’s your take on cycling and its impact on sperm health?
Dr. Reed:
“Cycling can lead to several issues, particularly if the bike seat doesn’t fit well, which can compress nerves and arteries affecting sexual function. However, occasional long rides shouldn’t significantly affect sperm production. It’s more about how it impacts sexual function.”
Host:
What are effective ways to handle stress during infertility challenges?
Dr. Reed:
“Infertility can test relationships deeply. Men often feel inadequate when facing these struggles. Stress management is crucial, whether it’s through counseling, exercise, or simply taking time for self-care. Prioritize mental and emotional well-being, as the stress of infertility can be particularly heavy.”
Host:
When is Clomid prescribed, and how does it function?
Dr. Reed:
“Clomid is a common medication I prescribe. It stimulates the pituitary gland to increase luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), enhancing sperm and testosterone production. It’s an effective, low-cost oral option for men with low testosterone or sperm counts.”
To learn more about managing fertility and lifestyle choices, check out our other blog posts that discuss navigating the journey of home insemination. You can also find excellent resources on pregnancy here. For couples interested in fertility tools, Make a Mom offers great insights.
In conclusion, men facing infertility can take proactive steps through lifestyle changes, from diet and exercise to avoiding harmful substances. The journey may be challenging, but with the right approaches and support, successful outcomes are entirely possible.