Diagnosing Infertility
If a couple has not achieved pregnancy after 12 months of consistent, unprotected intercourse, it is advisable for both partners to undergo evaluation. However, age is a significant factor; therefore, couples aged 35 and above should seek assistance after just six months of trying to conceive.
“Couples can also seek help after experiencing three instances of pregnancy loss,” states Dr. Rachel Corradetti-Sargeant, a naturopathic doctor with Conceive Health at Niagara Fertility. “If there are known issues related to hormones, general health, or a history of steroid use, they may consider seeking help earlier.”
Various assessments can be conducted to identify whether infertility is due to female factors, male factors, or a combination of both. A male fertility evaluation typically includes a review of medical history, a physical examination, hormone testing, and analysis of semen.
Male Infertility
Oxidative stress is responsible for half of all male infertility cases. This condition arises when there is an imbalance between harmful reactive oxidative species and antioxidants in the body. Within sperm, this can lead to DNA damage, protein oxidation, reduced motility, impaired functionality, and altered shape.
Male infertility can also stem from systemic diseases, infections, trauma, exposure to toxins, antibodies affecting sperm, and anatomical or genetic issues. Corradetti-Sargeant frequently observes cases of insulin resistance and diabetes in her male infertility patients. Insulin resistance has been linked to diminished semen quality, and men with diabetes often experience high rates of erectile dysfunction.
Testosterone
Testosterone is essential for maintaining healthy sexual function and is pivotal for spermatogenesis. The hormone’s production relies on the proper functioning of the neuroendocrine system called the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.
Factors such as being overweight, inadequate sleep, psychological stress, oxidative stress, and deficiencies in nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D can adversely affect the HPG axis.
To support healthy testosterone production, activities such as exercise (especially resistance training), sun exposure, effective stress management, and a nutrient-rich diet are important.
Enhancing Male Fertility
Diet
Insufficient nutrient levels can hinder fertility. “For male factor infertility, I commonly see deficiencies in vitamin D and vitamin B12,” remarks Corradetti-Sargeant. A diet high in fats can also negatively influence sperm structure.
Following a nutritious diet is linked to improved sperm quality, reduced DNA fragmentation, and fewer issues with sperm count, concentration, and motility.
Men are encouraged to consume a diverse and balanced diet that includes fish, poultry, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to enhance fertility. Increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids and minerals such as selenium and zinc positively affects sperm quality.
In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidant vitamins are crucial in combating oxidative stress, a primary factor in male factor infertility.
Lifestyle
Smoking cigarettes, using cannabis, and consuming alcohol can adversely impact fertility.
– Cigarette smoking is known to lower sperm count and cause abnormal morphology.
– Cannabis use has been linked to decreased sperm count, concentration, motility, and abnormal morphology.
– Alcohol consumption is associated with a reduction in semen volume.
Exposure to environmental or occupational endocrine-disrupting chemicals—including pesticides, phthalates, bisphenols, and flame retardants—has been correlated with fertility issues.
“To significantly improve fertility, men should eliminate as many toxins as possible, including smoking, marijuana use, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to BPA,” advises Corradetti-Sargeant.
Research is ongoing to explore the connection between male infertility and lifestyle factors like testicular heat excess, intense cycling, lack of sleep, and exposure to electromagnetic radiation from cellphones.
Global Stats on Male Fertility
– Over the last 40 years, the quality of human semen has decreased globally by 50 to 60 percent.
– Though this trend is observed worldwide, industrialized nations have experienced a more significant decline in male fertility.
– Lifestyle factors that can be changed, such as sedentary behavior and diets focused on processed foods, are likely contributors to this downward trend in fertility.
Sneaky Infertility Culprits
– Golfers exposed to heavy pesticides
– High-heat occupations such as firefighting and refinery work
– Jobs that require long commutes
– Tight-fitting underwear
– Frequent use of hot tubs
Natural Male Fertility Boosters
It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to safely and effectively integrate supplements into your fertility plan.
Supplement Benefit
CoQ10 Improves sperm quality and motility
melatonin Preserves spermatogonial stem cells and regulates sperm cell proliferation
myo-inositol Enhances sperm quality and improves mitochondrial function
L-arginine Shown to improve mild to moderate erectile dysfunction
zinc + folate Increases sperm concentration and improves morphology
fenugreek Known to boost serum total testosterone
ashwagandha Has been shown to enhance subjective sexual well-being in males
Legacies
Many believe that sperm health solely matters for conception. However, intriguing studies indicate that a man’s health prior to conception can influence the lifelong health of his children and potentially his grandchildren!
Diet and Weight
A diet high in fats and obesity can alter spermatogonial stem cells and induce metabolic dysfunction in offspring. Diabetes may trigger epigenetic changes in the germ line that can be transmitted across multiple generations, increasing the risk of diabetes in descendants.
Long-term Stress
Paternal exposure to trauma in early life and prolonged psychological stress can induce epigenetic changes in sperm. This can lead to transgenerational stress and a heightened risk of psychological disorders.
Seeking professional help to address stress and unresolved trauma could be beneficial not only for the father’s mental well-being but also for the health of his children.
