Reducing Your Risk of Infertility in Men

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

En Español (Spanish Version)

Infertility cannot always be prevented, but there are ways to lower the risk.

Avoid Exposure to Harmful Chemicals and Heavy Metals

Chemicals and heavy metals at work or in the environment can lead to infertility. They are thought to disrupt hormone function. Avoid exposure to these chemicals. Use protective gear on the job.

Preserve Fertility Before Certain Cancer Treatments

Some cancer treatments can affect fertility. Sperm may be collected before treatment and stored for future use.

Have Regular Physical Exams

Regular physical exams can find and treat problems early before they affect fertility.

REFERENCES:

Boosting your fertility: Lifestyle modifications. Resolve website. Available at: https://resolve.org/infertility-101/optimizing-my-fertility/boosting-your-fertility-lifestyle-modifications/. Accessed November 11, 2021.

Infertility in men. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/infertility-in-men-23. Accessed November 11, 2021.

Male infertility/andrology. American Society for Reproductive Medicine website. Available at: https://www.reproductivefacts.org/topics/topics-index/male-infertility. Accessed November 11, 2021.

Overview of infertility. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/infertility/overview-of-infertility. Accessed November 11, 2021.

Reproductive health and the workplace. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/repro. Accessed November 11, 2021.

• Previous • Next

Last reviewed November 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Mary-Beth Seymour, RN
Last Updated: 11/12/2021

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.