Sperm Defects Pass to Offspring.

Environmental toxins have long been known to decrease fertility in men, and as a healthcare practitioner, I have always told men to reduce their intake of alcohol and cigarettes while they are trying for pregnancy. It is important to keep the body in a strong & healthy state while trying for pregnancy because logically, the body will affect the sperm's strength & health. A recent study ups the ante on the importance of men staying away from environmental toxins. The study shows that genetic defects in sperm caused by environmental toxins can be passed down through generations.

From this article on BBC News today:

"Scientists say fathers who smoke and drink should be aware they are potentially not just damaging themselves, but also their heirs. Tests on rats showed sperm damage caused by exposure to garden chemicals remained up to four generations later. Rats exposed to it show signs of damage and overgrowth of the prostate, infertility and kidney problems. Professor Cynthia Daniels, from Rutgers University in New Jersey said: 'We need to open up our eyes and look at the evidence. My advice to young couples would be moderation. Substances that have an impact on reproduction are often also carcinogenic. If I was a young man I would not drink very heavily and not smoke two packets of cigarettes a day while I was trying to conceive a child.'"

So, take it easy on the toxins when trying to conceive. If you have any worries that your sperm might be damaged, wait at least 3 months to allow time for the potentially damaged sperm to course out of your body and for new, healthier sperm to be formed.

Also, feel free to check out my article on Men's Infertility & Chinese Medicine. Included in the article are some great tips on how you can increase your chances of producing more viable sperm.

posted by: Michael G. Pingicer, M.S., L.Ac.