Exercise may be the ticket for men trying to become fathers.

A new study from the University of Cordoba, Spain, links moderate physical activity in males with better hormone levels and sperm that favors reproduction compared to sedentary men.

The fact is that, for a number of reasons, sperm quality at large has dropped in the last 50 years. Naturally, this has caused an increase in probnlems with couples getting pregnant.

Small Sample Size

The authors assessed whether there was a difference in the hormonal and seminoligical profiles of physically active and sedentary males. “We have analysed qualitative semen parameters like the ejaculated volume, sperm count, mobility and sperm morphology,” as explained to SINC by Diana Vaamonde, researcher at the University of Cordoba and lead author of the study.

“Despite the fact that the sample population is not very big (31 men), given the complexity of the analysis, this is the first study that assessed the differences between these parameters in both populations,” states the researcher.

The results conclude that the physically active subjects display better semen values. More specifically, the differences found were in the seminological parameters of total progressive velocity and morphology, in the FSH, LH and T hormones and in the T/C ratio. Hormone data thus supports the hypothesis of a more favourable environment for sperm formation.

Key s Moderate Exercise

In 2010, the same researcher published a study showing that the sperm parameters of elite sportsmen (triathletes and waterpolo players) are worse than men who are just physically active. It is possible that the increased strain of training causes a decline in sperm quality.

“Despite that fact that more studies are needed to confirm these findings, we can suggest exercise to improve the hormonal environment and stimulate the sperm process,” adds Vaamonde.

Source
Eureka Alert