Eight things that are killing your sperm.

Infertility, especially amongst couples in Africa has been on a steady rise in the last decade, with some pegging it at around 20%.

While it is easy to put the blame on the women (in Africa), male infertility plays a bigger role than many realize.

Researches have shown that make infertility is solely responsible in about 20% of infertility cases and contributes to another 30-40% among couples.

Very often, the cause isn't genetic or unchangeable; the bulk of them are lifestyle-related.

Here are 8 habits and exposures that could be silently damaging your sperm health without you knowing:

1. Excessive Heat Exposure:

In today's world, the use of electronic devices like smartphones and laptops have become inevitable.

But what if I told you that these devices are contributing to low sperm production, would you believe me?

Sperm production needs a cooler temperature than the body's core. But when we regularly expose our bodies to heat from laptops placed directly on the lap, hot tubs, saunas, and even tight underwear or pants, these can lower sperm count by overheating the testicles.

2. Smoking & Vaping:

Heavy tobacco use, including vaping, reduces sperm concentration, motility, and in some cases found to increases the number of abnormal sperm. It also causes oxidative stress which damages sperm DNA.

3. Anabolic Steroids & Testosterone Supplements:

Six packs is a trend today and many young men are doing everything possible to get it; including taking protein shakes and other kinds of steroids.

While these may boost muscle growth, they also shut down the body's natural testosterone production, which is essential for sperm production.

Long-term use can lead to irreversible infertility.

4. Heavy Alcohol Use:

Excessive drinking of alcohol impairs testosterone production, affects liver function (which is key in regulating hormone levels), and can lead to poor sperm quality.

5. Certain Medications:

Chemotherapy, anti-androgens, and some antidepressants, antifungals, or antibiotics can all impact sperm count and quality. Always discuss fertility plans with your doctor before starting a new medication.

6. Environmental Toxins:

Exposure to pesticides, industrial chemicals, and heavy metals (like lead and mercury) has been shown to reduce fertility by affecting hormone levels and sperm DNA.

7. Chronic Stress:

High stress levels have been found to disrupt the hormone responsible for sperm production. Stress can also contributes to lifestyle habits that further worsen fertility, like poor sleep, substance use, etc.

8. Poor Diet:

Consumption of processed foods, sugar, and trans fats can impair sperm health.

Eating of foods rich in zine, folate, selenium, and vitamin C are vital for sperm production and function

Bottom line:

Many causes of male infertility are preventable. By making healthier lifestyle choices and reducing harmful exposures, sperm quality can often be improved significantly over time.

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