Boost reproductive health: 8 expert tips to prevent ejaculation disorders, hormonal decline

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, syphilis, Chlamydia, and herpes negatively affect the male reproductive potential. (Image: Canva)

Nowadays, incessant stress and lack of mobility stop a lot of people from being concerned with their well-being, particularly regarding reproductive and sexual health. Reproductive health issues that a lot of people go through include hypoactive sexual desire, developmental history and disorders of ejaculation, impotence, endometrial disease, polycystic ovarian disease, and fibroids. These problems are troubling and debilitating to one’s functioning and reproductive health. Stress is an extremely critical factor, especially in this contemporary age of busy life, as it affects an individual’s mental as well as emotional and physical capacities.

This may decrease male and female hormones, thus hindering processes such as ovulation and spermatogenesis. In addition, sedentary lifestyles and poor eating habits worsen this situation. It is important to treat these challenges positively by embracing healthy habits such as exercise, a balanced diet, and stress relief measures. That way, people can enhance their reproductive wellness and quality of life. Thus, some measures are recommended to be taken to manage reproductive health and resolve any reproductive problems as early as possible, provided by Dr Kalyani Shrimali, Fertility Specialist of Nova IVF Fertility, Indore.

Diabetic tests: People aged 35 years and above should have their blood sugar level checked every three years with a blood glucose test for diabetes or pre-diabetes. Unless the individual is otherwise healthy and overweight, it should be done well before the age of 35.

Blood pressure screening: Blood pressure is vital for females since it can indicate their general well-being and reproductive health. A family history of hypertension or blood pressure problems requires such individuals to have them from time to time for health purposes.

Semen tests: Semen tests are also a very essential component of the evaluation of male fertility. This is a test that assesses the quantity and functionality of a man’s reproductive cells. It assesses the volume of semen, sperm production, the activity of the sperm, and the structure of the sperm.

Also see | Keep gallbladder healthy: Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and other expert tips to boost digestion

Avoid substance abuse: Consuming alcohol or tobacco heavily or regularly brings about short-term dangers the adverse risks to health, together with risks to sexual and reproductive health. Stopping cigarette smoking is one of the most beneficial decisions that can be made for enhancing one’s health and longevity.

Regular checkups: Even if there aren’t any symptoms of a difference in health, regular health checkups (where blood pressure checkups, blood sugar levels, and even prostate examinations are included) are necessary in order to look out for the differences. Mental health should be emphasised in the same manner as physical health, hence the need to address problems such as depression and anxiety.

Screening for STDs: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV, syphilis, Chlamydia, and herpes negatively affect the male reproductive potential. At present there are no effective vaccines for these infections; therefore, a risk-reduction approach is very important. It’s important to encourage the use of contraceptives and practice protected sexual intercourse to avoid the transmission of sexually transmitted infections.

Intake of supplements: Some nutritional and antioxidant supplements have shown evidence of increasing sperm count and activity; they include CoQ10, selenium, and zinc. In addition to this, Ashwagandha, which is an ancient Indian medication, is proving to be effective in libido problems and reproductive issues facing men.

Exercise: It is important to maintain good health and physical fitness when preparing for conception. Exercise is a major factor for fertility, but with the current lifestyle involving little or no movement, it may only take a thirty-minute brisk walking session every day to boost fertility. Exercising affects the sperm too, and too much fitness training as well as muscle-building programs are not good for the quality of sperm.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.