Infertility
22.11.2024
Many couples today are struggling with fertility difficulties. Research shows that in a third of cases the problem is on the women’s side, in a third of cases men face infertility and in a third of couples both partners have complications. While there is quite a lot of advice and tips for women on how to improve their prospects even with targeted physical activity, more than half of the men are clueless in this regard.
Fertility problems in women are not as much of a whisper today as they were twenty years ago, and it is certainly not a topic that contemporary society shies away from. For men, however, the situation is still a little different, and anyone who ventures into a debate on male fertility will find that they are treading on rather thin ice. There is still more silence than talk about men’s difficulties in producing offspring, which certainly doesn’t help men. In fact, it is much more difficult for them to find out information that might help them improve their chances of conception.
Overweight and stress
The big enemies of male fertility are high body weight and an unhealthy lifestyle. Regular smoking, alcohol consumption in higher doses or a stressful regime combined with a lack of quality recovery and healthy sleep can result in reduced sperm quality and activity. A healthy and balanced diet combined with exercise and thorough relaxation can move not only the needle on the scale but also reproductive health. In fact, regular exercise lowers cortisol levels and increases testosterone levels, which has a positive effect on male fertility. For a suitable exercise plan, we recommend contacting an expert, because here too — everything in moderation!
Fine tune your hormone levels
Just like women, men need to keep an eye on their hormonal fitness. If you’re trying to live a healthy lifestyle, eliminate stress and still can’t conceive a baby, unstable hormone levels may be to blame. This is where hormonal yoga for men can be a great help. It is a comprehensive set of exercises aimed at male hormonal health that can be practiced comfortably at home. No equipment is required, what is important is the regularity of the exercises, which take about 40 minutes.
Of course, hormonal levels can also be corrected medically, as explained by IVF specialist Peter Hladký, MD. “If the examination of the spermiogram confirms pathological values, especially reduced sperm concentration or sperm motility, it is recommended that the man should also have his blood hormone levels examined. If reduced levels of sub-glandular hormones are confirmed, this may be why testicular function is reduced. We will then recommend hormone treatment using an injection pen, which may lead to improved sperm production, improve spermiogram parameters and so increase the couple’s chances of natural pregnancy, or increase the chances with assisted reproductive methods. Conversely, elevated levels of sub-glandular hormones confirm that the fault is not in the management of the testes, but in the testes themselves. If the testicular tissue is damaged, for example by a disease process, then hormone treatment will obviously not help.” Similar treatment for men is indicated by a physician who will evaluate whether a similar method is appropriate for the patient and improving his fertility.
Pelvic floor strengthening
For women, pelvic floor exercises are also crucial in connection with pregnancy and childbirth, but men appreciate them too. Ludmila Mojžíšová’s series of exercises was originally designed to help with musculoskeletal disorders. However, it has proven to be effective in improving fertility as well, and not only in women. It helps to strengthen the pelvic floor, eliminate various gynaecological and urological problems, unblock the tailbone and joints, treat headaches or spinal pain or alleviate scoliosis. The overall focus is on strengthening the group of muscles that stabilize the spine and work together for proper breathing. It is suitable for women and men of all ages.
“Men tend to find their pelvic floor the most difficult to discover at all. To do this, we use different approaches of imagery, sitting on a rolled up towel or yoga block to bring awareness to these deep seated muscles. We also use biofeedback with success.
or biofeedback, where the patient checks with his own fingers whether he is activating the right muscles. Once the gentlemen begin to feel and control the pelvic floor, they can begin to exercise it. However, this does not only mean strengthening, but also training its relaxation, because the pelvic floor must always be functional and flexible, or neither flabby nor overloaded.” explains physiotherapist Mgr. Petra Novotná.
Joy in the bedroom
We at Prague Fertility Centre are fully aware of the mental and physical strain that infertility treatment can put on a couple. Romance and intimacy can often disappear while undergoing artificial insemination, as confirmed by our patients. Proximity, support and mutual trust play a big role in the outcome of the IVF process. This is also why it is more than important to maintain optimism and perspective in life. This can certainly be helped by diversifying your amorous pleasures, which can ultimately lead to increased fertility. In such a case, women will appreciate, for example, a positioning pillow, Venus balls or vaginal dumbbells, which, in addition to a pleasant experience, simultaneously strengthen the pelvic floor.
Various couples’ aids, aphrodisiac massage oil or stimulating gels are suitable for increasing sexual arousal. Achieving orgasm during sex is probably the most pleasurable way to strengthen the pelvic floor and also increases the chances of getting pregnant, as the muscle contractions help move sperm towards the cervix more quickly. Make your bedroom an oasis of sensuality and make trying for a baby as enjoyable as possible. For inspiration, visit our e‑shop Růžový slon.