Both men and women play important roles in conceiving a baby. When a couple is not able to get pregnant and is diagnosed infertile, the woman is not necessarily the one with a problem. Men could equally be infertile, and that they could equally need help in order for the couple to get pregnant.
The idea that infertility is solely a women’s concern is probably the biggest fertility myth. One that it is easily debunked by scientific research over the years. The sperm count and the potency of the sperm could easily be the culprit behind the conception problems of couples. The following are some male fertility myths that should be understood and considered by couples everywhere.
More Sex, Bigger Chances of Getting Pregnant, Right?
Wrong. While many believe that having sex more often would increase the chances of a couple getting pregnant, that is not necessarily true. A sperm can survive inside a woman’s reproductive tract for 48 to 72 hours or two to three days.
Even without the daily effort, a couple could still get pregnant if they are fertile enough. Instead of increasing the frequency, a couple could time it appropriately. Women are most fertile 11 to 17 days after their period, making it the best time to try to get pregnant.
Only Overweight Males Get Infertile
Obesity is a well-known cause of decreased sperm count, which is a big factor when it comes to getting pregnant. However, males who are too thin can also experience reduced sperm count, which can lead to infertility.
Malnutrition and hormonal imbalance could lead to infertility as well. This is why males who are trying to get their partners pregnant should consult their doctors or nutritionists on how to lose or gain weight. Avoiding alcohol, drugs and nicotine and eating healthy food can also help improve your wives’ chances of getting pregnant.
Cycling Is Harmless
Bicycling is indeed a healthy activity. However, there are cases wherein it leads to certain health issues like infertility. Scrotal temperature is one of the factors that affect sperm production. Higher scrotal temperatures could slow down sperm production, which then decreases the likelihood of successfully impregnating your partner.
When you sit on the bike seat for more than 30 minutes while wearing tight-fitting shorts, the scrotal temperature is increased. If biking is part of your daily activity, you may suffer from low sperm count, which would negatively affect your fertility.
Other activities that also raise such temperatures include hot tubs, saunas, sitting in your office chair for hours at a time, and even having a running laptop in your lap for prolonged periods. If you do any of these activities on a daily basis and having trouble getting pregnant, it is suggested to consult your doctor right away.