Q. Does drinking hot water cause male infertility?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
There is no clear consensus on whether drinking hot water can cause male infertility or not. Studies have shown conflicting results, so more research needs to be done before a definitive answer can be drawn. However, it is important to note that studies have indicated that consuming very high temperatures of water could potentially damage sperm quality and increase the risk of male infertility.
One study published in the journal Mutation Research/Fundamental and Molecular Mechanisms of Mutagenesis looked at how different levels of heat affected human sperm motility (movement). The study found that testicular temperatures higher than 39°C reduced the number and motility of sperm cells significantly. However, their findings also showed that exposure to short-term high temperature actually improved some aspects of sperm production by increasing overall creatinine content and osmolality.
Another study conducted by researchers in Australia looked at the effect of hot baths on semen quality over time. They found that taking 8 or more hot baths per week over a period greater than six months was associated with lower semen volume and count as well as slower moving sperm cells, which are all indicators for lower fertility potential among males.
Overall, it appears safe to conclude that while drinking hot water may not necessarily directly lead to male infertility, there is evidence that suggests exposing testicles to higher temperatures through activities such as frequent hot baths or even just steamy showers should be avoided if you want maximize your chances for successful conception in the future
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