Male Fertility and The Endocrine System

The endocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating many bodily functions, including fertility in men. Endocrine disruptors, found in many everyday products such as plastics, can interfere with the delicate balance of hormones that are responsible for male fertility.

The endocrine system works by producing hormones that communicate with different parts of the body to control processes such as growth and development, metabolism, and reproductive function. In men, hormones such as testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone are essential for sperm production and healthy sexual function.

When endocrine disruptors are introduced into the body, they can mimic or block the action of hormones, leading to an imbalance. For example, the chemical bisphenol A (BPA), which is commonly found in plastics, has been shown to reduce sperm count and quality. Other endocrine disruptors, such as phthalates, have been linked to a decrease in testosterone levels, which can affect sperm production and overall fertility.

In recent years, studies have shown that there has been a significant decline in male sperm count and quality. In a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of samples collected globally in the 20th and 21st centuries, researchers found a 59.3% decrease in sperm concentration and a 52.4% decrease in total sperm count. This decline in sperm count has been linked to a number of environmental factors, including exposure to endocrine disruptors found in plastics and other household products.

Dr. Shanna Swan, a leading researcher in the field of environmental endocrine disruption and male infertility, has published several studies that demonstrate the negative effects of endocrine disruptors on sperm count and quality. In one of her studies, she found that men who had higher levels of phthalates in their bodies were more likely to have lower sperm count and lower sperm quality.

The role of the endocrine system plays in male fertility can’t be understated, nor can the introduction of endocrine disruptors through exposure to plastics and other products that can lead to an imbalance of hormones, resulting in decreased sperm count and quality. By reducing exposure to these chemicals and promoting a healthy lifestyle, men can take steps to protect their reproductive health and increase their chances of fathering a child.

Please reach out to set up an appointment or consult to learn more how acupuncture, Eastern medicine, diet and lifestyle modifications can help greatly in your journey to conception.