Millions of men suffer from infertility due to low sperm count. One study revealed that about 20% of young men have a low sperm count, which is defined as fewer than 5 million sperm per millilitre of semen.
Using several medical studies, Superdrug came up with an infographic that details the causes of low sperm count. You’ll be surprised to know what things or factors actually affects a man’s ability to conceive.
Wearing of Tight Underwear or Pants
In one study, men who wore tight underwear or pants for 120 consecutive days showed a decrease in the number of viable and motile sperm after 20 days, and decline in overall sperm count by day 34. Some participants exhibited 100% reduction in sperm count over the course of the study. So if you’re planning to have a baby, you might as well ditch your tight underwear and skinny jeans and switch to boxers and loose pants. The study found that the sperm count and viability of the participants returned to normal after 73 days without wearing tight undergarments.
Being Overweight
Maintaining a healthy weight is a crucial factor in optimal sperm production. A study has shown that men with a BMI over 25 experience a 22% decrease in sperm count as well as motility and concentration. Meanwhile, men with a BMI over 35 are 19 times more at risk to experience low sperm count.
Sunscreen
Chemicals found in sunscreen such as oxybenzone and octinoxate can reduce sperm count by 33%. While octinoxate alters hormone levels, oxybenzone slows down sperm production. Thus, it is more advisable to limit your exposure to the sun rather than slathering on sunscreen.
Radiation/Heat from Mobile phones
Mobile phones emit heat and electromagnetic radiation which can reduce sperm viability by 9.1% and mobility by 8.1%. To boost your fertility, avoid putting your mobile phones inside your pockets.
Drinking and smoking, use of marijuana, and abstinence are also some of the factors that can reduce sperm count. Learn more about this by checking Superdrug’s infographic.
