Friday, February 8, 2008

5 steps for boys to increase their fertility

How to Increase Male Fertility

Introduction:

Infertility, the inability to conceive a baby, can be caused by either male or female factors. In 30 to 50 percent of cases, the male’s fertility is the issue. Many things can have a negative effect on a man’s sperm production. Other things can improve it. If you are trying to become a father, here are some ways to improve your supply of healthy sperm.

Steps:


Step One

Stay cool! Anything that raises scrotal temperature can have a negative impact on sperm. Therefore, it’s a good idea to make these three changes to your lifestyle, if necessary:

1. Keep your laptop computer out of your lap! The heat generated by laptops is known to elevate scrotal temperature. While trying to conceive, work with your laptop on a desk or tabletop as often as possible.
2. Stay out of hot water. Take showers instead of baths and don’t spend time in a hot tub or a sauna.
3. Wear loose fitting clothes—boxers rather than briefs, and no tight jeans. These wardrobe changes will help keep the testicles cooler.

Step Two

Consume 15 mg of zinc every day. While myths abound about the ability of certain foods to improve fertility, eating oysters, which contain a lot of zinc, may actually help. Zinc aids in the production of both semen and testosterone in men. Men who don’t get enough zinc may be less fertile than those who do. It’s important not to get too much zinc, however. If you consume excessive zinc it can impede copper, an essential component of red blood cells. This could lead to anemia. The easiest way to get all the zinc you need it to take a daily multivitamin.

Step Three

Avoid (or reduce your consumption of) alcohol. Alcohol can have a negative impact on both your sperm production and your testosterone level.

Step Four

Stop smoking. Smoking can reduce the number of sperm you are able to produce. In laboratory tests, smokers’ sperm was shown to have more difficulty binding to an egg.

Step Five

Be aware that certain medications can have a negative impact on your ability to produce sperm. If you take any of these medicines, ask your doctor if there are alternative drugs that you could take: sulfasalazine, steroids, cimetidine (Tagamet) and nitrofurantoin. (Don’t stop taking your medicine without your doctor’s approval).

Tips & Warnings

  • Childhood illnesses such as mumps can have a negative impact on sperm development. Surgery to repair a hernia, bladder or genital problem could also affect fertility. Sexually transmitted diseases, exposure to radiation or toxic chemicals, or illicit drug use could also play a role. If any of these apply to you, you may want to consult your doctor.

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