Some fertility risk factors for men can be prevented or changed

A risk factor is something that increases a person’s chances of developing a health condition. When Dr. Susan Hudson diagnoses male infertility, she takes a very thorough family and medical history to assess fertility risk factors for men.

Some risk factors are not preventable, including certain medical procedures, such as hernia surgery; congenital defects, such as undescended testicles; illnesses, such as mumps after puberty; or trauma that affects the testicles. Other issues, such as environmental and lifestyle factors that can cause male infertility, are preventable if you make changes. The team at our New Braunfels fertility center can help you optimize your fertility and start the family you hope to have.

Environmental risk factors and male infertility

Exposure to chemicals, toxic substances and excessive heat can affect sperm function and sperm production. It’s important to try to reduce exposure to these environmental fertility risk factors for men.

• Pesticides, industrial chemicals, herbicides and other chemicals
• Radiation
• Lead or other heavy metals
• High temperatures, such as those in a sauna, steam room or hot tub
• Activities that may overheat the scrotum, such as prolonged work on a laptop that sits on your lap, tight underwear or pants, or sitting for very long periods of time

Lifestyle and fertility risk factors for men

You can control your lifestyle, so making changes can alleviate these fertility risk factors for men.

• Smoking tobacco can lower your sperm count.
• Being obese has several negative effects on male fertility. They include sperm issues and hormone changes.
• Drinking too much alcohol can decrease your sperm production and testosterone levels.
• Using illegal drugs can affect your sperm count.
• Anabolic steroids can shrink your testicles and decrease sperm production.

Preventing male infertility

Some fertility risk factors for men are preventable. Here are some of the things you can do to optimize your fertility.

• Quit smoking.
• Limit your alcohol intake or don’t drink at all.
• Get to and maintain a healthy weight.
• Don’t use illegal substances or misuse prescription medications.
• Avoid exposure to chemicals, toxins or heavy metals at work or at home.
• Don’t do yard work that requires pesticides.
• Avoid hot tubs, saunas and hot baths.
• Wear boxers and loose pants.
• Take breaks if you work in a sedentary job.
• Don’t place your laptop directly on your lap.
• Practice stress reduction.

Dr. Susan Hudson helps men deal with fertility issues at our New Braunfels fertility center

If you and your partner are having trouble conceiving, see Susan Hudson MD at our New Braunfels fertility center. We can help you deal with your male infertility. Contact us for an appointment.