​IS YOUR LIFESTYLE AFFECTING YOUR SPERM?

Did you know that your sperm health is directly related to your general health? Whether you’re considering being a sperm donor with Semovo or even planning a baby yourself, your lifestyle choices make a difference to your sperm.

From what you eat and drink to the activities you do, here are the main factors that can influence your ability to be a sperm donor or how easy it is for you to conceive naturally:

Stress and sperm: It’s Stress Awareness Month this month, and research has shown a link between stress and sperm quality, with changes in hormone levels caused by stress affecting sperm production. Good sperm quality is crucial for sperm donation.

To be a Semovo sperm donor, you need to have the best quality sperm possible, with good motility, count and shape. And for pregnancy too - your sperm has to be able to reach the egg successfully to fertilise it. So any factors that affect how well your sperm swims, its shape or sperm concentration can also affect your chances of natural conception.

Male obesity and sperm health: There is emerging evidence that being significantly overweight affects sperm quality. So, if your BMI is high, you may not be able to donate sperm because of its affects on your fertility. It’s why both men and women with a high BMI are advised to lose weight before trying to conceive or starting fertility treatment.

Alcohol, smoking and male fertility: Many men who smoke and drink alcohol easily father children, so why does it matter for sperm donation? Alcohol and smoking can both negatively affect the quality of your sperm, increasing DNA damage, making it unsuitable for use as donor sperm for fertility treatments.

Sports, saunas and sperm: An increase in testicle temperature can affect sperm health in terms of quality and production. It’s why men who want to conceive are often advised to wear loose fitting underwear, avoid hot baths or saunas or not use a laptop on your lap for extended periods of time.

Moderate physical activity isn’t proven to affect fertility, although it is definitely good for your health and stress levels. Some believe cycling can negatively impact sperm, but studies have shown no link.

Making lifestyle changes to be a sperm donor

It takes around three months for spermatogenesis, so if you make positive lifestyle changes to improve your health now, your sperm will be better for it in a few months’ time. Semen analysis is part of the sperm donation process at Semovo. We’ll examine your sperm in our laboratory when you apply to be a sperm donor. We’ll be able to tell you if any lifestyle factors have affected your sperm count, mobility or shape, and advise any changes you can make to improve your sperm health.

Speak to our friendly team on 0345 266 1272 if you have any questions about your lifestyle and sperm donation. If you’re interested in joining Semovo, find your nearest Semovo sperm donation clinic, and apply online to become a Semovo sperm donor.