EDUCATION

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.

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