Sperm Count
Testes need to be cool. That is the one characteristic that makes them different from all other parts of the body. Women have no equivalent. It is well known that more men are now seeking assistance with fertility problems. Sperm counts are dropping in most western cultures and couples generally take longer to conceive. What are some of the factors of modern lifestyle that might affect the temperature of the testes?
These days many men now wear fitted underpants that firmly support the testes. Even if they don’t wear tight underpants, men frequently wear tight jeans or tailored trousers. Compare this with the free flowing world under the kilt and other loose fitting robes worn traditionally in many cultures. Inside the jocks, the temperature of the testes is increased and especially so, if the jocks are at all tight. Experiments by a team or researchers in Adelaide showed that rams that were made to wear the equivalent of modern underpants had reduced fertility. When these rams serviced ewes, not only was there a reduced rate of conception but there was a greatly increased rate of pregnancy loss.
Sitting causes a problem because the testes are compressed. A study of fertility in paraplegic men found that their imposed long-term sitting had an adverse effect on the sperm. The groin area becomes warmer during sitting. In order for these men to regain their fertility it was necessary for them to undergo a special exercise program where they spent several hours each day out of their chairs. Men who work as professional drivers have similar problems from long periods of sitting. Problems related to temperature are usually reversible but it is necessary to have a few months spell from driving to recover.
Different types of underpants have different effects on temperature and temperature is reduced by 1.6 degrees if men sit with their thighs apart.
All men who drive for a living or who spend long hours at a computer need to introduce some type of interruption program where they get up, stretch and walk around. This should be undertaken once every half hour if possible. Where it’s not possible, there need to be more substantial exercise breaks taken at less regular intervals.
A recent Finish study measured the effects of different types of chairs on scrotal temperature. They found that temperature changes occurred rapidly in as little as 20 minutes and that the type of chair made an important difference. Their results could influence the types of chairs you select for your office.
My new e-book ‘Sperm Count’ explains the effects of temperature and a number of other lifestyle factors that affect male fertility. It is possible to make simple and economical changes to overcome many problems.
