Can Testosterone Levels Affect Fertility?
While it is common knowledge that low testosterone can affect sexual performance, many may not be aware that testosterone has an impact on fertility as well. Testosterone is one of the hormones that aids in the production of sperm, so it is important that you have the correctly-balanced levels of testosterone and other hormones to maintain reproductive health.
Testosterone and Sperm Count
When testosterone levels are too low, sperm count is reduced. Conversely, when testosterone levels are too high, sperm count is often reduced. This is because an overabundance of testosterone can lead to the body decreasing production of FSH, or the follicle-stimulating hormone, which is another important hormone that serves a function in sperm production.
If you are having problems conceiving or are concerned about fertility for another reason, you may want to have your testosterone levels evaluated. If you are taking testosterone, you should stop immediately as this may be decreasing your sperm count. In most cases where synthetic hormones are not involved, it is more likely that your testosterone levels are too low.
How can I test my testosterone levels?
Testosterone levels can be measured through a simple blood test. At the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine & Vasectomy Reversal, we can perform a blood test to measure your testosterone levels.
We can also test for other issues that may be leading to a lack of fertility. If medical problems are ruled out, we can create a plan to help you increase your sperm count by balancing your testosterone levels or other treatment – it is what we do, and what has led to a reputation as being the leaders in male reproductive health.
Can male fertility be improved?
Before undergoing any special treatment, there are several actions that could aid in achieving healthy testosterone levels. Some of the issues that could lead to low testosterone levels include:
• Being overweight
• Smoking cigarettes
• Drug use
• Excessive alcohol consumption
Our male infertility surgeon may recommend that you make some lifestyle changes before establishing a custom treatment plan. Increasing exercise may be an advised step as exercise aids in weight loss and can help to trigger an increase in testosterone levels.
Lifestyle Changes
The use of alcohol, cigarettes, and any recreational drugs have an impact on fertility, and lifestyle changes may be necessary. With a healthier lifestyle, the quantity of testosterone produced by your body could increase naturally.
The Right Environment for Fertility in Men
Our male fertility surgeon may advise you to keep your genital area cool, as sperm needs cooler temperatures to stay healthy. Men trying to conceive should avoid hot tubs, saunas, “hot yoga,” or any other high-heat environment. Avoid placing your laptop on your lap, as it warms up during use and will heat the groin area.
If you have made all the recommended lifestyle changes, have ruled out other medical problems, and are still having difficulty conceiving, a treatment plan can be established to balance your testosterone level.
Treatment Options
At the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine & Vasectomy Reversal, we have many treatment options available for men with low testosterone levels. While testosterone injections will merely lead to a reduced sperm count, we also treat our male patients with hormone therapy to aid in sperm production.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Clomid, and Arimadex are examples of hormone therapy options that may be used to improve fertility. At our Los Angeles clinic, our world-renown male fertility doctor will thoroughly assess your unique situation through testing and work with you to create a custom treatment plan to aid in your level of fertility.
