November is Men’s Health Awareness Month also known as Movember, a movement dedicated to men’s health awareness, encouraging men to grow mustaches to spark conversation and promote well-being. While Movember often highlights prostate and mental health, this month is also a powerful opportunity to discuss an essential, sometimes overlooked topic: male fertility.
Why Male Fertility Matters
Infertility affects millions of people globally, with male factors playing a role in nearly half of all cases and in about 20% of infertility cases, male factor infertility is the sole cause. Fertility isn’t just a “female issue”—men’s reproductive health is equally essential in the journey to start a family. Understanding male fertility factors, lifestyle impacts, and the importance of proactive health management can empower men to take charge of their reproductive health.
Key Factors Affecting Male Fertility
- Lifestyle Choices
Alcohol, smoking, and drug use can negatively impact sperm health. Additionally, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are associated with decreased sperm quality.. - Age and Health Conditions
While age doesn’t affect male fertility as significantly as it does for women, sperm quality can decline over time. Men over 40 may see slight decreases in sperm count and mobility. Health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and specific genetic disorders can affect fertility, making regular check-ups essential.
Tips to Support Male Fertility
- Healthy Diet
Nutrient-rich diets, high in antioxidants (like those found in fruits and vegetables), zinc, and folate, can support healthy sperm production. Avoiding highly processed foods and trans fats also benefits reproductive health. - Exercise and Stress Management
Regular exercise and stress management have been shown to improve overall health, which includes reproductive health. Finding ways to manage stress, such as mindfulness or engaging in hobbies, can positively impact hormone balance and fertility. - Proactive Health Screenings
Regular screenings for common male health issues, such as prostate exams and hormone checks, can catch underlying issues that may be affecting fertility. Men should consider fertility evaluations, especially if they have been trying to conceive for over a year without success.
When to Seek Help
If you’re considering starting a family and have concerns about your reproductive health, don’t hesitate to reach out to our fertility specialists. Male fertility testing is straightforward, usually involving a semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, mobility, and quality.
Supporting Men’s Health in November and Beyond
Movember serves as a reminder of the importance of men’s health, and male fertility is a key part of that picture. It is important to break the silence around men’s reproductive health and create supportive conversations and actions. Remember, seeking information and support can be the first step toward making the dream of starting a family a reality. Schedule a consult today.
