Does Extreme Heat Affect Male Fertility? 6 Tips To Boost Reproductive Health | Lifestyle News

Last Updated:July 07, 2025, 16:10 IST

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and increased testicular heat are key factors contributing to reduced male fertility

The monsoon has arrived in many states across India. While some areas are dealing with flood-like conditions, others are experiencing heat and humidity once the rain stops. The summer season in India typically lasts for 7-8 months. During this period, people face issues like heatwaves, dehydration, and heatstroke. But did you know that extreme heat can also affect male fertility?

Yes, according to studies, high temperatures in summer can negatively impact sperm health. Excessive heat exposure may lead to a decrease in sperm count in men.

According to a study from the BMC Public Health journal, prolonged exposure to high temperatures and increased testicular heat are major contributors to declining male fertility. In tropical regions, where hot winds blow fiercely during the summer, reproductive health is said to be at greater risk than usual. The testicles are naturally located outside the body to remain cooler than the body’s core temperature – a condition essential for healthy sperm development.

Factors like staying in hot environments for long hours, wearing tight clothing, hot water baths, and using laptops on the lap can raise scrotal temperature. This leads to thermal stress, which interferes with spermatogenesis—the process of sperm production.

6 Ways Men Can Boost Fertility in Summer

• Avoid wearing tight jeans, underwear, or pants. Opt for loose clothes like boxers, pyjamas, and relaxed trousers, especially at home.
• Prolonged exposure to hot water can lower sperm quality and count.
• Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can negatively affect the reproductive system and its functions.
• Include foods rich in vitamin C, E, zinc, and selenium in your diet. These nutrients reduce oxidative stress and support sperm health.
• Avoid sitting for long hours. Regular moderate exercise and adequate sleep help maintain hormonal balance and reproductive health.
• Spend time in a cool area while taking breaks. Be mindful of heat exposure at your workplace and take steps to protect your overall health.

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