Fertility challenges affect both parts of a couple. Our lives are moving faster than ever. We have technology all around us (like laptops on laps and cell phones in pockets etc.) It is no wonder that our Western culture is experiencing an increase in fertility challenges.

Men are no exception to this. While we tend to talk about women and cycle related difficulties when couples try to conceive, there is an increasing number of men who are experiencing challenges as well.

Historical Perspective

Since the 1970s, male fertility rates have plummeted by more than 50 percent.

Yes, you read that right. Pretty staggering, isn’t it?

The rate of miscarriage is on the rise, and it isn’t just a “female problem.” The morphology of sperm play a role in this statistic.

While the WHO says that 15 million sperm per milliliter is “low” – the truth of the matter is any sperm count 40 million sperm per milliliter or below poses challenges for conception.  

In a recent New York Post article, they noted that “Today the average male is nearing that number at 47.1 million sperm per milliliter. Compare him to his father, who had an average of 99 million sperm per milliliter” we have a serious concern not only for the health of today’s men but for future generations as well.

Sperm As A Vital Sign

Just like periods are a vital sign for women, sperm are a vital sign for men. If count, morphology or motility (or any combination of these) are not in healthy ranges, it speaks to the health of the man’s body.

Why are we seeing these alarming changes in men’s vital signs?

The same reasons we are seeing it in females – chemicals, pesticides in our farming practices, sedentary lifestyle, electronics and more.

While age is a factor (yes men, the magic 35 number does affect you too) there are many choices you can make to support your fertility long after you pass the 35 threshold.

How To Support Your Fertility

Diet, lifestyle and circulation are important factors for supporting male fertility.

Technology has made our jobs and our social lives more sedentary than ever. Getting a “move on” is important for your health! Hike, walk, run, weight lifting – whatever feels good to you, get moving! The one kind of exercise to minimize, however, is cycling. Anything that holds the “boys” close to the body (underwear, bike seats etc.) will affect your sperm quality.

While cutting down/out caffeine, smoking and alcohol are the most discussed lifestyle changes for men, getting key nutrients like amino acids is important as well.

Pelvic steaming is a great way to support your fertility as well. Yes, this is a practice that is mostly used by women, but there is something in it for you too!

Steaming the perineum has benefits for men including improved erectile quality, bladder control and sperm production. Circulation in the pelvic floor is important for both men and women.

Thinking about getting pregnant? Check out Empowered Fertility for more in-depth information on supporting men’s health to improve your chances for a baby.