Strategies to Increase Pregnancy Probability (Men's Perspective)

This time, we will introduce strategies to increase the probability of pregnancy from a men's perspective.

 

<   Overview   >

The Process of Sperm Production
Home Remedies
The Ideal Time for Fresh Sperm
Harmful Factors for Sperm
How to Produce Healthy Sperm

 

The Process of Sperm Production

Many people are often confused about the process of sperm production, so let me briefly explain how sperm is generated and released. Sperm production starts in the testes, and after being created there, they are stored in the epididymis. The seminal fluid, produced by the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and other organs, surrounds and protects the sperm. It takes approximately three months for sperm to fully mature, which means that taking care of your body should start at least three months in advance.

 

 

 

Home Remedies

Sperm move at a rate of 1-4 mm per minute. Assuming the length of a woman's fallopian tube is 15 cm, it takes about an hour for sperm to travel from the cervix to the fallopian tube. This journey is essential for fertilization.

What is Sperm Liquefaction?
Immediately after ejaculation, sperm typically have a thick, sticky texture. This consistency impedes sperm from moving inside the female reproductive tract. However, within 15-30 minutes, the sperm usually transforms into a liquid state, which is crucial for allowing sperm to swim freely through the cervix.

While no specific sexual positions have been proven to be more effective for conception, it is recommended that women keep their hips lower than their vaginal opening after intercourse. This position allows sperm to travel by gravity, potentially aiding fertilization. It is also advisable for women to maintain the same position for over an hour after intercourse.

 

 

 

The Ideal Time for Fresh Sperm

Before having intercourse on the day of ovulation, consider the following two factors:

 

1. Sperm survival period is about three days, while an egg's lifespan is approximately 12 hours. Therefore, planning to ensure that sperm can reach the woman's fallopian tube by the day of ovulation is recommended.

 

2. Sperm quality is at its best approximately 3-5 days after production. It's advised to ejaculate and eliminate older sperm within 3-5 days before the expected day of ovulation.

 

Regular sperm management is essential. Not only should you do what's good for sperm quality, but it's also vital to avoid activities that can harm sperm.

 

 

 

Harmful Factors for Sperm

Sperm production thrives in an environment that is 2-4°C cooler than normal body temperature. To keep sperm healthy, you should avoid the following:

 

1. Avoid raising testicular temperature:

○ Avoid prolonged bicycle rides.

○ Do not wear tight underwear or pants.

○ Refrain from using electric heating pads.

○ Avoid saunas and hot baths.

 

2. Be cautious of strong electromagnetic fields from electronic devices:

○ Do not carry cell phones in your pockets.

 

3. Reduce the consumption of high-caffeine products:

○ High caffeine intake can reduce sperm motility and potentially damage sperm DNA.

 

 

 

How to Produce Healthy Sperm

 

1. Increase Testosterone Levels:

○ Engage in high-intensity interval training and strength exercises regularly.

○ Ensure sufficient sleep.

○ Manage stress.

○ Maintain a healthy body weight.

 

2. Take Nutritional Supplements

The key aspects to manage are 'sperm quantity', 'sperm motility', and 'sperm quality'.

 

Here are some essential nutrients:

 

○ Folate

Prevents sperm from damage by harmful oxygen radicals and influences sperm count and quality.

 

○ Zinc

An essential nutrient for generating the male hormone testosterone, which activates sperm production.

 

○ Coenzyme Q10

Helps produce healthy sperm and improves sperm motility.

 

○ Vitamin C and E

Calm the oxidative reactions occurring during sperm production, proactively preventing sperm DNA damage.

 

○ Black Garlic

Contains allicin, which combines with vitamin B1 to form alitiin, a compound that regulates hormones and enhances sperm function.

Acts as an antioxidant, removing reactive oxygen species.

Abundant in zinc, good for liver health, and assists in detoxification and stress relief.

 

○ Omega-3

Supports the fusion of the sperm membrane with the egg membrane during fertilization. As this fat is prone to oxidation by reactive oxygen species, it is recommended to consume antioxidants along with it.

 

So far, we've covered strategies to increase pregnancy probability from a men's perspective. In the next post, we will discuss methods for choosing the gender of the baby during pregnancy.