UK Sperm Counts Fall by One-Third

Researchers found that the average “normal” sperm count in British men has fallen from 87 million sperm per milliliter in 1989 to 62 million per milliliter in 2002–a 29 percent drop.

The research was conducted on 16,000 semen samples taken from 7,500 men. Researchers say genetic factors are the key to sperm counts, although environmental and occupational influences also play a role. The results of the study suggest that a growing number of men may have problems fathering children. Researchers suggested that the drop in sperm may have to do with the increasing numbers of men seeking treatment for male infertility, however they don’t know whether men are seeking treatment because more men have lower sperm counts, or because they are aware of new treatment options.

More research is being conducted to find out if there has been a similar decrease in sperm quality, as opposed to quantity, which can greatly reduce a man’s chance of having children.

BBC News January 5, 2004

Dr. Mercola’s Comment:

Along with genetics and environmental and occupational influences, other factors that may play a part in the lowered sperm counts include artificial sweeteners like Nutrasweet, pesticides, alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity and radiation. You can read the article I posted nearly two years ago for more information.

If you are experiencing fertility problems, improving your diet, exercising and watching your stress levels would make great first steps toward remedying this problem. A healthy diet like that described in my new book would be the most important step, as without the proper nutrients, all of the body systems, including the reproductive system, will not work optimally.

Exercise is also important, as if there is a weight problem, fertility will be negatively impacted. In addition, exercise can reduce insulin resistance, which can also cause infertility. Exercise can also provide benefit by improving circulation, which provides better oxygenation of the cells.