About Alcohol & Sperm Count

Overview

Couples who are trying to conceive are sometimes concerned with the man’s sperm count. Many factors can influence sperm count and quality, including excessive alcohol consumption. Men who are concerned about their sperm count should consult their doctor to schedule a sperm analysis test and should seek counseling or treatment if alcohol abuse is a problem.

Significance

According to the American Pregnancy Association, 50 percent of fertility problems couples face is from issues with the man. There are many causes for infertility, but there is evidence that using alcohol, drugs, smoking and engaging in activities that raise the testicles’ temperature can contribute. These activities include cycling and using saunas and hot tubs.

Effects

Excessive alcohol use can cause low sperm count and also adversely affect sperm quality. This is important because it can hinder couples’ attempts to have children. Alcohol can also have many other negative health consequences, such as liver problems and bleeding ulcers, reports FamilyDoctor.

How Much Alcohol is Too Much?

It doesn’t take much alcohol to risk lowering sperm count and quality. Having more than one or two alcoholic drinks a day increasing the chances of having a low sperm count. The Mayo Clinic advises that drinking alcohol and smoking appears to be especially dangerous to sperm.

Increasing Sperm Count

To increase sperm count, reduce alcohol use or stop drinking altogether. Other things that can help raise sperm count are quitting smoking, not using illegal drugs, losing extra weight and wearing loose-fitting underwear. Ejaculating no more than once every three days can also raise low sperm counts, states LowSpermCount

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/172582-about-alcohol-sperm-count/#ixzz1SEDSnxMm