Should men stop taking hot showers? The “Cold” link between infertility and heart health

At the end of the day, a hot shower feels like an ultimate fix to soothe muscles and relax the mind. But this steamy comfort can come with a downside, especially for men. Studies are evident that frequent hot showers can impact men’s reproductive health by impacting sperm quality and fertility. However, the lesser known fact is that hot showers and its aftermath can lead to cardiovascular issues in men. Below we explore the scientific take on that question whether men should ditch hot showers or not.(Image credits: Canva)

The testes are located outside the body to maintain a slightly lower temperature, which is optimal for sperm production. A number of studies suggest elevated temperatures can impair sperm quality, as sperm production is highly sensitive to temperature. High temperatures, such as those found in hot showers, saunas, hot tubs, can negatively affect sperm parameters and may lead to low sperm count or oligospermia.

Low sperm count directly impacts fertility. If the numbers of sperm are less, the chances of fertilizing the egg also decreases. However, low sperm count doesn’t only reduce one’s chances of becoming a parent. Interestingly, the implications of low sperm count extend beyond reproductive health. Emerging researches are increasingly indicating that reduced fertility in men can impact cardiovascular health.

A 15 year-long study conducted by The World Journal of Men’s Health on Taiwanese men concluded that men with infertility have higher risk of developing incident cardiovascular diseases. The findings of this study highlight that male infertility is not just a reproductive concern, and low fertility can be an early indicator of broader health risks including heart diseases. Similarly, a Stanford University study found that men diagnosed with infertility have a higher risk of developing general health ailments like diabetes and ischemic heart disease.

Hot showers themselves are not inherently harmful. What’s harmful is the frequent exposure to high temperatures. The simple answer is men aren’t required to completely give up on hot showers. Occasional hot showers are unlikely to cause lasting damage, but daily prolonged exposure could contribute to reduced sperm count. Thus mindful adjustment of temperature, frequency, and duration is important.

So, whether a man is planning to start a family or not, fertility and sperm count should be on his radar as reduced sperm count is not just a fertility issue and can impact overall health. Maintaining temperature exposure around reproductive organs can help support overall well-being.