Male Infertility: Natural Ways to Improve Sperm Health

Male infertility is a growing concern worldwide at this point and almost 20-30% of couples have issues with conception due to male infertility.

The ability to conceive for men depends on several factors, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. Most people tend to seek natural remedies to improve fertility. That is what we will cover in today's blog, so let's get started.

Understanding Male Infertility

Male infertility is when a man has a lower chance of making his female partner pregnant. It can be due to several reasons:

Low sperm count: The sperm count is considered low if there are less than 15 million sperm per millilitre of semen.

Poor sperm motility: It is when sperm cannot swim properly.

Abnormal sperm morphology: It happens when sperm has an irregular shape that affects their ability to fertilize an egg.

Common Causes of Male Infertility

There could be several causes for infertility, the common ones may include -

- Hormonal imbalances

- Sexual dysfunctions like erectile dysfunction or inability to orgasm

- Genetic factors

- Lifestyle choices like smoking, alcohol consumption, drug use

- Environmental toxins

- Stress and obesity

- Certain medical conditions like diabetes, infections

It is important to get your regular health check ups done via a healthcare provider and sexologist to recognose the hidden symptoms. This can help you unveil multiple factors that could be causing difficulty in successful conception.

Natural Remedies for Male Infertility

It is important to consult a sexologist and find the right cause which can expedite the recovery. However, below is a list of a few remedies that can help infertile men -

Diet and Nutrition - A healthy diet plays a crucial role in boosting male fertility. Various nutrients like zinc, selenium, folate, and antioxidants are important for sperm health. Here are a few supplements you can consider -

Zinc: Studies have shown that zinc deficiency is linked to reduced testosterone levels and poor sperm quality. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, eggs, beans, nuts, legumes, and seeds.

Selenium: This mineral is vital for sperm motility. Foods like Brazil nuts, eggs, fish, and sunflower seeds are excellent sources of selenium. Research states that selenium supplements can improve sperm motility and function.

Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E are known to protect sperm from oxidative stress. Foods rich in antioxidants include citrus fruits, berries, spinach, and nuts.

Folate: It is essential for DNA synthesis, and folate deficiency can lead to abnormal sperm production. Leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals are good sources of folate.

It is highly advised to consult a sexologist to find suitable supplements with accurate dosages for efficient results.

Herbal Remedies - Indian culture is enriched with herbal remedies and there are a few herbs that have been used for infertility for ages. It includes -

Ashwagandha: It is renowned for adaptogenic properties, and helps reduce stress and improve overall reproductive health. A recent study showcased remarkable results wherein during 90 day period, sperm count increased by a whopping 167% in infertile men.

Tribulus Terrestris: Another traditionally used herb in Ayurveda, Tribulus is believed to enhance libido and improve sperm quality.

Maca Root: Maca root is known for its ability to increase libido and enhance sperm production.

Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to improve sperm count and testosterone levels.

Lifestyle Modifications - There are a few lifestyle changes that can help improve male fertility. It includes -

Exercise: Regular physical activity is nothing less than magical and helps maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and boost testosterone levels.

However, it is important to know that intense exercise should be avoided, as it can negatively impact sperm quality.

Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are linked to decreased sperm quality and count. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake can surely improve fertility.

Manage Stress: High stress levels can lead to hormonal imbalances, that may also affect sperm production. Different practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help manage stress effectively.

Avoid Heat Exposure: Prolonged exposure to heat, such as hot tubs, saunas, or tight clothing, can also lower sperm production. It is important to keep the testicular area cool which can be beneficial for sperm health.

Supplements for Male Fertility - Several supplements have been shown to improve sperm quality and quantity including -

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): It is an antioxidant that has been shown to improve sperm motility. A study found that men who took CoQ10 supplements showed increased sperm motility.

L-Carnitine: It is an amino acid that has been linked to improved sperm motility.

Vitamin D: Deficiency in vitamin D is associated with poor sperm quality among other bodily issues. It is crucial to ensure one has adequate vitamin D levels and it can be achieved via sun exposure or supplementation and can ultimately help improve fertility.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: It is found in fish oil and flaxseed, and are known to enhance sperm morphology and motility.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture is another popular alternative approach that has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including infertility.

The practice is believed to improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, balance hormones, and reduce stress. All these approaches are known to improve sperm quality and motility in men with infertility.

Maintain a Healthy Weight - Obesity is linked to lower sperm quality and hormonal imbalances that can lead to infertility. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can also improve male fertility.

Bottom Line

Male infertility can be a challenging condition to manage, but natural remedies do offer a promising approach to improving fertility.

By incorporating a balanced diet, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and other natural treatments, men can improve their reproductive health.

It is crucial to consult a Doctor before starting any new supplement or treatment regimen, especially for someone with underlying medical conditions However, it is recommended to get proper medical treatment if you are still facing issues with conception.

FAQs

Q - How long does it take for natural remedies to improve male fertility?

A - Natural remedies take a sweet time and may take several weeks to months to show noticeable improvements in sperm quality and quantity. It is important to be consistent and patient while giving natural remedies a chance.

Q - Are there any side effects of herbal supplements for male fertility?

A - Most herbal supplements are considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, it is essential to consult with a sexologist to avoid potential interactions with other medications and understand proper dosage.

Q - Can natural remedies completely cure male infertility?

A - Natural remedies can improve sperm health and fertility, but they may not completely cure infertility, especially if the cause is genetic or severe. It is advisable to seek professional medical advice for a proper treatment plan.