Improving Fertility

What’s the best way to reduce male infertility?

Healthier sperm in 6 simple steps


1 . Maintain a healthy weight.
Some research suggests that increasing BMI is linked with decreasing sperm count and sperm movement.
2Eat a healthy diet.
Choose plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants — and might help improve male fertility.
3. Prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Sexually transmitted infections — such as chlamydia and gonorrhea — are a cause of infertility in men. To protect yourself, limit your number of sexual partners and use a condom each time you have sex — or stay in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who isn’t infected.
4. Manage stress.
5. Get moving.
Moderate physical activity can increase levels of powerful antioxidant enzymes, which can help protect sperm, thus increasing male fertility.
6. Complimentary therapy
Complementary therapies such as reflexology and acupuncture can bring benefits while you are having male fertility treatment. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help some men to overcome male infertility problems by improving the quality of their sperm. Visit our colleagues at the natural fertility clinic for more information and advice.

What’s off-limits?


  • Don’t smoke.
  • Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
    Heavy drinking can lead to reduced testosterone production, impotence, decreased sperm production and cause infertility in men. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so only in moderation.
  • Avoid lubricants during sex.
    While further research is needed on the effects of lubricants on male fertility, consider avoiding lubricants during intercourse. If necessary, consider using baby oil, canola oil, egg white, or a fertility friendly lubricant, such as Pre-Seed.
  • Talk to your health care provider about medications.
    Calcium channel blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, anti-androgens and other medications can contribute to male fertility issues. Anabolic steroids can have the same effect.
  • Cancer treatment.
    Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer can impair sperm production and cause infertility that might be permanent. Ask your doctor about the impact on your fertility — or the possibility of retrieving and storing sperm before treatment.
  • Watch out for toxins.
  • Stay cool.
    Increased scrotal temperature can hamper sperm production. Although the benefits have not been fully proven, wearing loose-fitting underwear, reducing the time you spend sitting, avoiding saunas and hot tubs, and limiting scrotum exposure to warm objects, such as a laptop, might enhance sperm quality and thus improve male fertility.
