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This website helps me to prepare for conversations with my doctor:

avoiding health risks

There are various day-to-day risks for both men and women, which are not beneficial for either their health or their fertility.

  • substances that are poisonous to reproduction
  • sports
  • temperature of the testicles

substances that are poisonous to reproduction

There are certain professions in which people are more likely to be exposed to poisonous substances than others. This is why your doctor will ask you about your job. Painters, for example, are exposed to poisonous vapours on a daily basis and these can affect the quality of semen.

Environmental poisons such as heavy metals derived from industrial production, or hormones fed to cattle have also been proven to contribute to reduced sperm production.

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sports

Although it is very healthy to keep in shape, excessive exercise can, in fact, be bad for men who are trying to have a child. The build-up of heat in the testicles during exercise can adversely affect sperm production. There is no need to stop sports altogether; simply try not to indulge in strenuous exercise immediately before intercourse.

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temperature of the testicles

The scrotum hangs outside the man’s body because the sperm have to be a couple of degrees lower than the rest of the body. Underwear that is too tight, nylon cycling shorts, sitting to close to a heat source at work, saunas and long hot showers can all consistently increase the temperature of the testicles. Avoiding these situations can help avoid overheating of the testicles.

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