The Link Between Stress and Men’s Reproductive Health

When you’re trying to conceive a child, you’ll try just about anything to make it happen. Men trying to improve their reproductive health often wear looser clothing, avoid hot tubs and laptops, and change their diets to improve their chances at conception. It can get pretty stressful, which is not great, because stress negatively impact on your reproductive health as well.

It makes sense that stress would be bad for your reproductive health, because it’s bad for your health in general. Stress, a reaction to mental or emotional pressure, can cause biochemical, physiological, and behavioral changes or responses. It’s known to disrupt immune function, exacerbate bowel issues, cause heart trouble, and contribute to cancer. Now, several studied have linked stress with a reduction in male fertility and the quality of semen.

Stress can cause erectile dysfunction, which is a major cause of infertility. Researchers don’t yet fully understand, though, what it is about stress that impacts semen quality. It may cause the release of hormones that decrease testosterone and sperm production, or it could be that oxidative stress is the problem. One study indicated that work stress adversely affected sperm count and semen volume, and another showed that prolonged stress, such as the stress experienced by soldiers, reduced sperm motility. Other studied confirm the correlation between stress and semen quality, even if we don’t know exactly how it happens.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your stress. Even though stress can feel like it’s beyond your control, you can alleviate it in the following ways.

• Take control of your problems. If something is overwhelming you, try breaking it down into smaller, more manageable tasks so it’s easier to tackle.
• Learn to say no. It’s easy to keep taking on tasks and adding to your workload, and this may be your way of trying to be in control of your problems. However, it’s smarter to delegate than to do too much, and to say no when you’re overwhelmed. If you’re often working overtime, for instance, be proactive about it, speaking to your boss and making a point to work fewer hours.
• Spend time with your favorite people. It’s easy for men to become isolated, especially when they’re dealing with something as stressful as infertility. Make the time to be with friends and family, enjoying the company of loved ones without focusing on your worries. It can also be helpful to talk about your struggles with infertility, and if you’re having trouble talking to people you know about it, consider joining a support group. In a group where people are going through similar experiences, you can share and feel truly understood.
• Get some exercise. Regular exercise can reduce stress and anxiety, as well as helping to regulate your sleep patterns, which also alleviates stress. You don’t have to overdo it; yoga, walking, or a light gym workout are enough to be beneficial. Make exercise a priority, scheduling like you would any other appointment, and invite a friend to join you. Above all, do something you enjoy that’s sustainable in the long run.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we are committed to helping men overcome reproductive issues and start healthy families. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.