Male Infertility: How Lifestyle Changes Can Boost Fertility

Infertility is a widely discussed topic, especially on online forums, where the acronym “TTC” (trying to conceive) is frequently used. Many couples share their struggles, tips, and success stories, often focusing on the woman’s experience. However, male infertility is just as significant a factor in conception challenges, with one in six couples facing infertility issues—and in up to half of those cases, the problem lies with the male partner.

Dr. Declan Keane, a reproductive health expert, explains, “About 40 percent of infertility issues are related to male factors.” Despite this, much of the conversation around fertility still centers on women. Conditions affecting male fertility can include low or non-existent sperm counts, DNA fragmentation, poor sperm mobility, or abnormalities in the male chromosome.

Male fertility treatments range from lifestyle changes to more clinical interventions. One common procedure is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), in which a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. This procedure, often used for low sperm count or poor sperm mobility, is just as effective as in vitro fertilization (IVF) but tends to be overshadowed by IVF due to the lack of discussion around male fertility.

Dr. David Walsh, medical director at a fertility clinic, notes, “In many IVF clinics, about 60 percent of treatments actually involve ICSI, but it’s often referred to as IVF because it’s more widely recognized.” He attributes this to a cultural reluctance among men to discuss fertility issues. “Women are more likely to discuss their fertility challenges, while men tend to keep quiet,” he says. This silence, Walsh believes, may prevent men from seeking the help they need.

Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture and nutrition, can also support fertility. Specialist Ian Claxton often sees couples who are unaware that small lifestyle changes can improve male fertility. He says, “I get many couples who think they need expensive IVF treatments when simple changes, like improving diet or reducing stress, could be enough.”

Men’s reluctance to discuss fertility issues is also biological. Unlike women, who have a finite supply of eggs and only release one per month, men produce sperm constantly. However, aging still affects male fertility, particularly after the age of 48, when sperm quality can decline.

Moreover, male infertility appears to be on the rise. Claxton stresses the importance of men becoming more aware of their fertility and the factors that affect it. “If men don’t start talking about it, the problem will be even harder to address,” he warns.

Personal Story: How Diet and Lifestyle Saved My Chance at Fatherhood

Thomas McCluskey, 30, was devastated when doctors told him he would never be a father due to a zero sperm count. However, after changing his diet and lifestyle, he saw a dramatic improvement in his fertility. “I felt like I’d been punched in the stomach,” McCluskey recalls of the moment he learned he would need a sperm donor. “We had been trying for years, and until then, the tests had focused only on my wife, Karen.”

After a second sperm analysis, it was revealed that the issue lay with him, not Karen. They consulted a fertility specialist who highlighted the importance of diet and lifestyle in male fertility. “I couldn’t believe no one had mentioned this before,” says McCluskey. “We had been living on frozen food, takeaways, and no exercise.”

McCluskey made significant lifestyle changes: he started exercising, cut down on alcohol, and improved his diet with foods like garlic, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds. In just a few months, he lost 20kg, and his sperm count increased from zero to 500,000. “From being told I’d never be a dad, I now feel confident that we can conceive naturally,” he says.

Tips for Improving Male Fertility

Exercise Regularly: Excess fat can hinder sperm production, but excessive cycling can have negative effects.
Cut Back on Alcohol: Alcohol affects the body’s ability to absorb zinc, a vital mineral for sperm production.
Avoid Smoking and Drugs: These reduce testosterone levels, essential for sperm production. Steroids, in particular, can disrupt hormone balance.
Wear Loose Underwear: Tight clothing or keeping a laptop on your lap can increase testicle temperature, impairing sperm production.
Limit Processed Foods and Caffeine: Eating a balanced, healthy diet supports sperm health.
Lower Dairy and Meat Intake: These can contain estrogen-like compounds that negatively affect sperm production. Choose organic options to avoid pesticides.
Be Cautious with Cellphones: Though research is ongoing, some experts recommend not carrying cellphones in pockets near the groin to reduce potential electromagnetic exposure.

Reproductive health expert Dr. Declan Keane sums it up: “What you put into your body plays a crucial role in sperm production. Healthy lifestyle choices are key.”