What factors may influence semen quality and sperm function?

This study investigated if lifestyle and demographic factors influence semen quality. They found that sperm quality was associated with a number of factors, including age, coffee and juice intake, abstinence, and sleep patterns. 

Semen quality is used to measure male fertility. In recent years semen quality has been declining worldwide. The cause of this decline is unclear. Some studies suggest lifestyle factors (LFs) may influence semen quality. These include diet, smoking and physical activity (PA). Demographic factors (DFs) may also influence semen quality. Age and body mass index (BMI; a measurement of weight in relation to height) are DFs. Both LF and DF may have an effect on semen quality. However, it is more difficult to determine if these effects also have an effect on reproduction. 

LF and DF have been investigated independently. It is unclear if there is an association between LF and DF on semen quality. 

This study included 328 men undergoing semen analysis (SA). Sperm quality was measured during SA. This included measuring sperm concentration, count, and motility. Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF; damage to genetic material in the sperm) was also measured. DFs and LFs were recorded using a questionnaire.  

A higher sperm count was associated with increasing age and abstinence time. Daily coffee intake of more than 900 ml was associated with lower sperm count. Also, sperm volume was lower in men with a coffee intake of 550ml or more per day. 

Lower sperm motility was associated with increasing age. Daily juice intake was associated with changes in sperm motility. Greater SDF was associated with increasing age. Sperm concentration was lower in patients getting less than 4.7 hours of sleep and increased in those who slept more than 8 hours a night. SDF was also higher in men with irregular sleep habits.

Sperm count was also associated with abstinence time. A higher abstinence time was linked to higher sperm count.

The authors concluded that semen quality was associated with a number of factors including age, coffee and juice intake, sleep and abstinence patterns.

This study did not investigate the effect of DFs and LFs on reproductive outcomes. Further controlled studies are needed to confirm the observations in this study. 

If you have any concerns regarding infertility please consult with your physician.