Refer a Friend and Earn Offers! - Beli Prenatals are HSA/FSA eligible!

Does Summer Heat Affect Sperm Health?

Sky high temperatures are the norm for most of us during the summer, and keeping cool is priority number one. For men hoping to become fathers, managing temperature is a particular concern. Male fertility is intrinsically tied to the production of healthy sperm, and external factors like nutrition, activity level, sleep quality, hormonal balance and environmental conditions play key roles. If you already know that boxers are often recommended over briefs when a man is hoping to conceive with a partner, you probably also know that heat can indeed be an issue. As temperatures creep upward, here’s what to know about summer heat and its effect on sperm health.

Key Takeaways

  • The sperm maturation process is a delicate process that’s heavily influenced by external factors—including heat.
  • Excessive heat exposure can be detrimental to all sperm parameters, from count and concentration to motility and morphology.
  • To manage heat and support male fertility, wear loose-fitting clothes, seek the shade, hydrate properly and avoid prolonged time spent in artificial heat, like hot tubs and saunas.

A Look At Spermatogenesis

To understand why heat is detrimental to sperm, let’s back up to review the sperm maturation process itself. The average healthy male produces millions of new sperm every day, but in preparation for fertilization, each must undergo a key maturation process known as spermatogenesis. It takes roughly three months, and it’s during this window that sperm become fully functioning after moving through three key phases. It’s a complex and delicate process that’s heavily influenced by modifiable lifestyle factors. Nutrients are a big one (1), and heat can be damaging as well.

Healthy sperm is measured by a few key parameters:

  • Sperm count: This is the number or concentration of sperm cells in a given amount of semen. Normal semen has 40 million to 300 million sperm per milliliter. A low sperm count—also known as oligospermia—is between 10 and 20 million sperm per milliliter. Important note here: even 20 million sperm per milliliter can be enough for pregnancy if the sperm are otherwise healthy. 
  • Sperm morphology: Normal sperm have egg-shaped heads and long tails, which is an ideal for making the three-part journey from the vagina to the cervix and uterus to the fallopian tubes. Sperm use their long tails to “swim” to the egg. The more normal-shaped sperm a man has, the easier it will be for them to reach the egg.
  • Sperm motility: The ability to swim is an essential function of a healthy sperm cell. Sperm motility is measured as the percentage of moving sperm cells in a sample of semen. Healthy sperm motility is defined as sperm with forward progressions of at least 25 micrometers per second. Poor sperm mobility is known as asthenospermia or asthenozoospermia. Sperm motility issues include slow or sluggish progressive motility, non-progressive motility (defined as anything less than 5 micrometers per second) and no mobility.
  • Testosterone levels and hormonal balance: The precise balance of hormones in a man’s body determines the success of the male reproductive system. This includes producing enough testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

What Does Excessive Heat Do To Sperm?

The optimal temperature for the testicles during spermatogenesis is 2 to 4 degrees C lower than body temperature. Heat stress drives testicular tissue temperature up, and it’s evident in the quality of sperm. Research shows that prolonged heat exposure, such as during a heat wave, can wreak havoc on key aspects of spermatogenesis (2) through decreased mitochondrial activity and by slowing down the entire process, leading to issues like:

  • Decreased sperm volume and reduced sperm count
  • Impaired sperm motility
  • Dysfunctional sperm morphology

According to researchers in a meta-analysis of nine scientific articles relating to the impact of high ambient temperature on semen parameters (3), “heat stress is considered to be the most influential cause of reproductive function in mammals.” Their conclusion was direct: “There is an urgent need to make recommendations and strategies to protect the health of people living or working in high-temperature environments, especially the reproductive health of males.”

How To Manage Heat For Sperm Health

Here at Beli, we’re staunch believers that knowledge is power. By understanding the issue high heat exposure poses to a man trying to become a father, it’s possible to take steps to reduce risks and support fertility health. And it’s not as hard as you may think!

1.  Dress for the heat. Skip the tight underwear and pants. When it’s hot, wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing that allows the air to circulate.

2.  Skip the hot tubs, saunas and hot springs. Artificial heat from hot tubs, baths, saunas and hot springs can have the same negative effects as ambient heat, so limit your time spent in these places.

3.  Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Staying properly hydrated helps regulate body temperature (and it’s important for your health), so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water.

4.  Limit exposure whenever possible. Like the hot tub, do your best to limit your time in the heat. Whenever possible, try to hang in the shade, use fans or air conditioners, and if you’re working outdoors, take frequent breaks to cool down afterward with a cold shower or a swim. And check out our post on cold plunging as it relates to male fertility. 

5. Manage exercise intensity. Adjust workout intensity according to the temperature. Exercise during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and take breaks to cool down.

6. Use cooling devices. Consider using cooling devices like fans, cooling packs, or even specially designed underwear that helps maintain optimal scrotal temperature.

Don't overlook other best practices when the temperature is high, either. When outdoors, seek shade whenever possible. This can help prevent overheating and reduce overall body temperature. And don't forget the SPF!

Men concerned about their fertility should also consider regular check-ups with a healthcare provider. A semen analysis can help monitor sperm health and catch any issues early. In addition to managing heat exposure, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support fertility. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can protect sperm from oxidative stress caused by heat. Foods high in zinc, selenium, and folic acid are particularly beneficial. Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress are also crucial for maintaining healthy sperm production.

The Bottom Line

The summer heat really can have a temporary effect on male fertility, so doing what you can to keep cool, especially if the goal is becoming a dad, is really important. You should pair that with other best practices, from balanced nutrition to regular exercise to stress management. And don’t forget the men’s prenatal vitamin! It’s an easy way to get a steady stream of high-quality nutrients that support sperm health, and the two-capsule daily serving of Beli Vitality for Men pairs nicely with a tall glass of ice-cold water.

Resources

  1. Skorachaka, K et al. (2020). Diet and Nutritional Factors in Male (In)fertility—Underestimated Factors. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7291266/
  1. Deng, X et al. (2023). Heat wave exposure and semen quality in sperm donation volunteers: a retrospective longitudinal study in south China. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37451571/
  1. Hoang-Thi A et al. (2022). The impact of high ambient temperature on human sperm parameters: a meta-analysis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9288403/

    Shop the Story

    Additional Resources

    Many men overlook how crucial sperm health is until it's too late. Red flag statements can signal poor sperm quality. Whether trying to conceive or maintaining health, recognizing these signs early can impact your fertility and well-being.

    Read More

    Fall is not just a time for pumpkin spice lattes and cooler weather; it’s also an opportunity to optimize fertility, particularly for men. Cooler temperatures naturally benefit sperm health, while Beli for Men provides the essential nutrients needed to take those benefits even further. 

    Read More

    Egg quantity and quality are critical aspect of our reproductive well-being. By understanding the ideal number of eggs at various ages, why egg quality and quantity matter, and how to nurture and improve egg health, we can make informed decisions about our fertility and overall health.

    Read More

    Miscarriage is a complex issue, and while sperm health is just one factor, it's a crucial one. By understanding the statistics and research surrounding miscarriage and sperm health, couples can take proactive steps to improve fertility outcomes. Beli Vitality for Men offers a comprehensive fertility supplement solution, supported by industry research and designed to improve sperm health. By combining Beli Vitality with healthy lifestyle choices, couples can optimize their fertility journey and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.

    Read More

    While it’s true that popular hair loss meds work minor miracles on that receding hairline and back-of-the-head bald patch, it’s also true that it can come with side effects—some of them sexual. So, what does that mean in terms of male fertility? Here’s what couples should understand about the effects of popular hair-loss medications on sperm health.

    Read More

    The long, lazy days of summer aren’t just prime vacation days. Summer could actually be an especially fertile season, which may be of interest to couples who are interested in starting a family. If you’re angling for parenthood this summer, here’s what to know about the season of fertility.

    Read More

    If you’re no stranger to the telltale signs of seasonal allergies—sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, irritated eyes, the works—you’re likely familiar with antihistamines. When you’re actively trying to conceive, there’s more to understand about histamines, seasonal allergies and how it affects your fertility.

    Read More

    When the plan is a baby, but you’re having a hard time conceiving, it’s normal to start wondering why. While there can be a number of issues in play, one tends to be overlooked: sleep quality. Specifically, men who have the sleep disorder sleep apnea could be at greater risk of fertility issues. Now, new research is drawing a more definitive link between sleep apnea and male fertility. Let’s review.

    Read More

    Fact: You can’t look at a guy—or eyeball his semen sample, for that matter—and determine his fertility. It just doesn’t work that way. The only way to truly assess sperm health is with a semen analysis. But there are a few lifestyle choices and truths that may indicate whether a man’s sperm is healthy and happy. 

    Read More

    While PCOS can be a challenging condition to manage, natural supplements like inositol that are included in Beli Preconception Boost offer a beacon of hope. Inositol's ability to improve insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and ovulatory function makes it a valuable tool in the PCOS management toolkit. 

    Read More

    The concern that hormonal contraception affects future fertility is making the rounds on social media again. But research continues to show that all that worry is for naught. While birth control doesn’t cause long-term fertility issues, it can mask them by creating an artificial cycle—something that’s important to understand.

    Read More

    While it’s lumped into the “bodily fluid” category, semen is a complex cocktail of compounds designed to support fertility. Like sperm quality, semen health can be influenced by lifestyle factors—an important realization for couples trying to conceive. From color to consistency, here’s what healthy semen looks like.

    Read More

    There’s a lot of chatter when it comes to male masturbation and what it says about a man’s fertility or whether it’s an issue when a couple is actively trying to conceive. And in the interest of clearing up the confusion, we’re taking a facts-based approach to the topic of men, masturbation and fertility.

    Read More

    For many of us, our twenties and even thirties are a time when the focus is on pregnancy prevention. And that’s okay! But even when the idea of motherhood is miles away there is tremendous value in understanding your fertility health and what you can do to support it during these young, carefree days.

    Read More

    Once a month, PMS symptoms make their unpleasant presence known. And while knowing what’s happening won’t make PMS magically disappear, it can help you manage symptoms by balancing hormones and supporting your reproductive health. Let’s review.

    Read More

    Raise your hand if you already know that you have a biological clock. From age 35 and beyond, there is a natural decline in testosterone and sperm quality. Just as people lose muscle strength, flexibility and endurance with age, sperm also tend to lose their "fitness" over the life cycle. But what does that mean—and does it really matter?

    Read More

    It’s an easy assumption, but you’re much better off thinking that every prenatal vitamin is wildly different in terms of composition, nutrient quality and, importantly, nutrient amount. Not only is that actually true, it puts you in the smart consumer mindset of understanding what matters in a prenatal vitamin—and why.

    Read More

    If you have endometriosis, you can already recite its lengthy list of pretty terrible symptoms. And the standard options for managing those symptoms — medications, hormone therapy, hormonal birth control, estrogen blockers, surgery —  aren’t always great. But there is evidence that a so-called “endometriosis diet” can help.

    Read More

    Men really do benefit from specialized nutrition in the form of a prenatal vitamin that’s formulated to support sperm health. Here’s what that looks like, and how specific nutrients can impact a man’s fertility health before fatherhood.

    Read More

    Shilajit is finally getting the credit it’s due, and we’re proud to point out that our proprietary formula was the very first to include this powerful Ayurvedic compound. Here’s why shilajit is rapidly becoming the darling of the male fertility world–and what you’re missing if you’re skipping it.

    Read More

    Ever wondered why men produce so much darn sperm, especially if only one of them will ultimately fertilize the egg? There are millions of sperm in normal ejaculate because it increases the likelihood that one will reach the egg and seal the deal. It begs the question, what exactly happens on the journey to the egg?

    Read More

    Optimal nutrition plays a pivotal role in enhancing fertility and supporting a healthy pregnancy. A diet rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats, lays the foundation for reproductive health.

    Read More

    Is there anything unsexier than scheduled, pressure-ridden, trying-like-hell-to-conceive sex? But good news. We’ve found handy workarounds and tricks of the trade, so forget the basal temperature chart for a second and read on for four ways to keep things hot when you’re TTC.

    Read More

    Many men overlook how crucial sperm health is until it's too late. Red flag statements can signal poor sperm quality. Whether trying to conceive or maintaining health, recognizing these signs early can impact your fertility and well-being.

    Read More

    Fall is not just a time for pumpkin spice lattes and cooler weather; it’s also an opportunity to optimize fertility, particularly for men. Cooler temperatures naturally benefit sperm health, while Beli for Men provides the essential nutrients needed to take those benefits even further. 

    Read More

    Miscarriage is a complex issue, and while sperm health is just one factor, it's a crucial one. By understanding the statistics and research surrounding miscarriage and sperm health, couples can take proactive steps to improve fertility outcomes. Beli Vitality for Men offers a comprehensive fertility supplement solution, supported by industry research and designed to improve sperm health. By combining Beli Vitality with healthy lifestyle choices, couples can optimize their fertility journey and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.

    Read More

    While it’s true that popular hair loss meds work minor miracles on that receding hairline and back-of-the-head bald patch, it’s also true that it can come with side effects—some of them sexual. So, what does that mean in terms of male fertility? Here’s what couples should understand about the effects of popular hair-loss medications on sperm health.

    Read More

    If you’re no stranger to the telltale signs of seasonal allergies—sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, irritated eyes, the works—you’re likely familiar with antihistamines. When you’re actively trying to conceive, there’s more to understand about histamines, seasonal allergies and how it affects your fertility.

    Read More

    When the plan is a baby, but you’re having a hard time conceiving, it’s normal to start wondering why. While there can be a number of issues in play, one tends to be overlooked: sleep quality. Specifically, men who have the sleep disorder sleep apnea could be at greater risk of fertility issues. Now, new research is drawing a more definitive link between sleep apnea and male fertility. Let’s review.

    Read More

    Fact: You can’t look at a guy—or eyeball his semen sample, for that matter—and determine his fertility. It just doesn’t work that way. The only way to truly assess sperm health is with a semen analysis. But there are a few lifestyle choices and truths that may indicate whether a man’s sperm is healthy and happy. 

    Read More

    While it’s lumped into the “bodily fluid” category, semen is a complex cocktail of compounds designed to support fertility. Like sperm quality, semen health can be influenced by lifestyle factors—an important realization for couples trying to conceive. From color to consistency, here’s what healthy semen looks like.

    Read More

    There’s a lot of chatter when it comes to male masturbation and what it says about a man’s fertility or whether it’s an issue when a couple is actively trying to conceive. And in the interest of clearing up the confusion, we’re taking a facts-based approach to the topic of men, masturbation and fertility.

    Read More

    For many of us, our twenties and even thirties are a time when the focus is on pregnancy prevention. And that’s okay! But even when the idea of motherhood is miles away there is tremendous value in understanding your fertility health and what you can do to support it during these young, carefree days.

    Read More

    Raise your hand if you already know that you have a biological clock. From age 35 and beyond, there is a natural decline in testosterone and sperm quality. Just as people lose muscle strength, flexibility and endurance with age, sperm also tend to lose their "fitness" over the life cycle. But what does that mean—and does it really matter?

    Read More

    It’s an easy assumption, but you’re much better off thinking that every prenatal vitamin is wildly different in terms of composition, nutrient quality and, importantly, nutrient amount. Not only is that actually true, it puts you in the smart consumer mindset of understanding what matters in a prenatal vitamin—and why.

    Read More

    Men really do benefit from specialized nutrition in the form of a prenatal vitamin that’s formulated to support sperm health. Here’s what that looks like, and how specific nutrients can impact a man’s fertility health before fatherhood.

    Read More

    Shilajit is finally getting the credit it’s due, and we’re proud to point out that our proprietary formula was the very first to include this powerful Ayurvedic compound. Here’s why shilajit is rapidly becoming the darling of the male fertility world–and what you’re missing if you’re skipping it.

    Read More

    Ever wondered why men produce so much darn sperm, especially if only one of them will ultimately fertilize the egg? There are millions of sperm in normal ejaculate because it increases the likelihood that one will reach the egg and seal the deal. It begs the question, what exactly happens on the journey to the egg?

    Read More
    ×

    Change Shipping Country

    Cancel