Published Mar 28, 2025 | 4:00 PM ⚊ Updated Mar 28, 2025 | 4:00 PM
Gentle exposure to sunlight, especially during the early morning or late afternoon hours — without leading to overheating —can be advantageous. (Wikimedia Commons)
Temperature, an important factor for male fertility, is often ignored by many. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can significantly affect sperm, which is crucial for a man’s ability to impregnate a woman.
Despite the ruthless heat, summer can be advantageous for fertility treatment with proper management.
Sperms need a suitable environment to flourish. The testicles operate most effectively at 2-3°C lower than the body temperature.
Overexposure to heat from sources like the sun, hot tubs, tight garments, or high-temperature workplaces can adversely affect sperm motility, quality, and DNA integrity. Men can safeguard fertility during the hottest months by making conscious lifestyle changes.
Sperms thrive at an optimal temperature, ideally 2-3°C lower than body temperature. By adopting smart lifestyle choices, men can ensure a favorable environment for sperm production and quality, even during warmer months.
Here are some effective strategies:
Wear breathable clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen to allow air circulation and reduce heat buildup.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps regulate body temperature and maintain healthy seminal fluid, which is essential for sperm motility.
Use smart cooling techniques: Keeping the home cool with fans or moderate air conditioning prevents overheating, but extremely low temperatures should be avoided to maintain healthy blood circulation.
Take cool showers: A refreshing shower helps lower body temperature and prevents overheating after spending time outdoors.
Vitamin-D boost: The body generates vitamin D when exposed to natural sunlight, and this is crucial for enhancing sperm quality and motility as well as testosterone levels. Gentle exposure to sunlight, especially during the early morning or late afternoon hours — without leading to overheating —can be advantageous.
Promotes active lifestyle: Summer motivates outdoor pursuits such as swimming, biking, and strolling, each of which enhances blood circulation and reproductive health. Regular exercise is important for keeping hormones balanced and weight in check—both of which are vital for sperm production.
Seasonal nutrition and hydration: The presence of hydrating fruits and antioxidant-rich vegetables in summer promotes overall health, including fertility. Watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and berries help cool the body while delivering vital nutrients for sperm health. To keep seminal fluid healthy and sperm motility at an optimal level, it is vital to stay well-hydrated.
Enhanced sleep and stress mitigation: Participating in outdoor activities and getting exposed to sunlight help to normalise sleep cycles, alleviate stress, and enhance general wellness. Reduced stress contributes to improved hormone balance and better sperm health, making summer a beneficial season for individuals undergoing fertility treatments.
Instead of seeing summer as a challenge for fertility, it can be embraced as an opportunity to boost reproductive health. The season naturally supports fertility with increased vitamin D from sunlight, better circulation through outdoor activities, and access to hydrating, nutrient-rich foods—all of which contribute to improved sperm quality and overall reproductive wellness.
Summer is an ideal time for in vitro fertilisation (IVF), offering fewer seasonal illnesses and a more flexible schedule, ensuring better treatment adherence. With a proven 70 percent success rate, expert fertility care provides the best chance for a successful pregnancy.
To maximise these benefits while reducing potential risks, men can take a balanced approach by managing heat exposure and staying well-hydrated. Enjoying outdoor activities in moderation, especially during cooler times of the day, allows for the benefits of fresh air and movement without the risk of overheating.
Additionally, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature—rather than excessively low air conditioning—supports healthy circulation, which is crucial for sperm production.
By making simple yet effective lifestyle adjustments, such as wearing breathable clothing, staying hydrated, eating antioxidant-rich foods, and engaging in regular exercise, men can create an optimal environment for reproductive health.
With the right precautions, summer can actively support fertility treatments, improving outcomes and helping individuals move closer to their parenthood dreams.
(Dr. Jalagam Kavya Rao is Regional Medical Head at Oasis Fertility and Fertility Specialist. Views are personal. Edited by Majnu Babu).
