7 Everyday Habits That Could Be Tanking Your Fertility
By Dr. David Samadi
Have you taken stock of your fertility habits lately?
When a couple decides it’s time to start a family, the spotlight often falls on the woman’s fertility. However, it’s crucial to remember that men play an equally significant role in conception. Your contribution matters just as much.
Here’s the truth: you could be unknowingly sabotaging your fertility. The good news? Most of these fertility-busting habits are fixable. And the sooner you address them, the better your chances of fathering a healthy child. There’s always room for improvement, and your efforts can make a real difference.
Your sperm health is a direct reflection of your overall health. This means that if you’re serious about becoming a dad, it’s time to take a closer look at your daily habits. Here are seven common mistakes that could be holding you back. Your health is in your hands, and your choices can directly impact your fertility.
1. Still Reaching for That Cigarette? Time to Quit.
Smoking doesn’t just mess with your lungs—it harms your sperm, too. The nicotine and toxins in cigarettes have been linked to lower sperm counts and sluggish sperm that struggle to reach the egg. Bottom line: smoking makes conception harder.
2. Using Your Laptop on Your Lap? Rethink That.
Sure, it’s convenient. But resting a laptop directly on your lap generates heat—and sperm don’t like it hot. Prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures and possibly Wi-Fi radiation may reduce sperm motility and damage DNA. Keep your device on a desk instead.
3. Skipping Red Foods Like Tomatoes and Watermelon? Eat Up.
Lycopene, the antioxidant responsible for the red color in foods like tomatoes, watermelon, and red peppers, plays a significant role in sperm health. It helps protect sperm from oxidative stress, keeping them swimming strong. Load your plate with red produce regularly.
4. Taking Long Hot Showers or Hot Tubs? Cool It.
There’s a reason why a man’s testicles hang outside the body: they need to stay a few degrees cooler than your core temperature for optimal sperm production. Frequent exposure to hot water—think hot tubs or steamy baths—can lower sperm count. Until your partner is pregnant, stick to cooler baths and showers.
5. Overdoing the Coffee? Time to Cut Back.
We all love a good caffeine boost, but going overboard—especially with three or more cups a day—may increase the risk of sperm mutations. Stick to one or two cups daily to play it safe.
6. Carrying Extra Weight? It’s Hurting More Than Your Waistline.
Men who are overweight or obese often have lower sperm counts and poorer sperm quality. Extra body fat can also throw your hormones out of balance. If fatherhood is your goal, working toward a healthy weight is a step in the right direction.
7. Think Marijuana is No Big Deal? Think Again.
As marijuana becomes more socially acceptable, many men assume it’s harmless. But research says otherwise. Regular marijuana use has been linked to lower sperm counts and abnormal sperm shape (morphology). This is especially true for men under 30. If you’re trying to conceive, now’s a good time to take a break.
The Bottom Line
Fertility isn’t just a women’s issue—it’s a men’s health issue too. Taking a proactive approach to your lifestyle can significantly improve your chances of becoming a dad. Small changes today could make a big difference tomorrow.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.