You may have taken our quiz to see whether or not your underwear is hurting your sperm count, and while that may be possible, there are many sperm count myths out there. If you’re looking to conceive and improve your sperm count, or maybe, you’re concerned that your sperm count may be too low and you’re wondering why. There can be a lot of misinformation out there that leaves you wondering.
Consider GR8NESS your sperm count myth busters, because we wanted to get down to the bottom of some of these sperm count claims.
Claim: Honey Improves Sperm Count
Verdict: Fact
The health benefits of honey have been studied for centuries. Honey was commonly used among ancient Egyptians to treat a wide variety of ailments, and today locally sourced honey is believed to improve your immune system. But what about sperm count?
Recent studies show that honey can improve your sperm count, natural testosterone serum concentration, and fertility. Rich in vitamins and minerals, honey may be able to provide that boost you’re looking for.
Claim: Testosterone Supplements Improve Sperm Count
Verdict: Myth
Fertility is not directly correlated with levels of testosterone, and testosterone is not the hormone that is primarily responsible for sperm production. Taking testosterone supplements may decrease your sperm count, according to experts. The supplements lower the count of another key reproductive hormone, FSH, which is crucial for sperm production.
If you’ve started taking testosterone supplements in hopes of improving your sperm count, the good news is that the process is entirely reversible. Your count will bounce back once you stop taking the supplements.
Claim: THC Decreases Sperm Count
Verdict: Myth
This is perhaps one of the greatest bits of misinformation regarding sperm count out there. It’s widely believed that men who regularly use THC products have low sperm counts, but it turns out that this isn’t the case. Harvard University School of Public Health recently conducted a study that showed men who regularly consumed THC had perfectly adequate sperm levels.
Claim: Stress Can Lead to Lowered Sperm Count
Verdict: Fact
It’s been shown that both stress and depression can negatively impact a man’s sperm count. Stress releases different hormones, such as cortisol, within the body, and when hormones are out of balance, it affects male sperm count. Additionally, mood disorders such as depression can add another layer of difficulty when trying to conceive, as such conditions often cause low libido and sexual dysfunction.
The Bottom Line on What to Believe
If you’re worried about your sperm count or are having trouble trying to conceive, it can leave you frustrated and confused. The best course of action is to speak with your doctor regarding your concerns. There are medical tests available to see if your sperm count is low, and your doctor can recommend a course of treatment.
When trying to improve your sperm count, though, one thing is for sure. Your physical health plays a vital role. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep, all lend to an overall improved state of health and ultimately greater success when trying to conceive.