Yes, prolonged exposure to high temperatures, such as those found in hot tubs, saunas, and long, hot baths, can negatively impact sperm function and potentially reduce fertility.
How Baths Affect Sperm
The testicles, where sperm are produced, require a temperature slightly lower than the body's core temperature for optimal sperm production and function. Exposure to excessive heat, such as from long hot baths or hot tubs, increases testicular temperature, which can:
- Reduce sperm count: High temperatures can damage sperm cells, leading to a lower number of sperm.
- Impair sperm motility: Heat can reduce the ability of sperm to swim efficiently towards the egg, making fertilization less likely.
- Affect sperm morphology: High temperatures can alter the shape and structure of sperm, further reducing their ability to fertilize an egg.
Several studies have confirmed these effects. A 2007 study at UC San Francisco showed that exposure to hot baths or hot tubs can lead to male infertility, although the effects can sometimes be reversible. [Source: https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2007/03/97990/hot-tubs-hurt-fertility-ucsf-study-shows] Another study involving eleven men who used hot tubs or took hot baths for at least thirty minutes per week showed negative impacts on sperm after three months. [Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/health/facts-and-myths-male-fertility-tight-underwear-hot-tubs-marijuana-and-more] Multiple other sources corroborate these findings, highlighting the risk of overheating sperm cells through prolonged exposure to heat. [Sources: https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/making-fertility-friendly-lifestyle-choices, https://www.givelegacy.com/resources/saunas-hot-tubs-and-sperm-production/, https://www.babycenter.com/getting-pregnant/how-to-get-pregnant/should-we-steer-clear-of-the-hot-tub-while-trying-to-get-pre_1336309, https://www.exseedhealth.com/hot-baths-male-fertility/, https://healthymale.org.au/ask-the-doc/can-spas-or-hot-tubs-cause-infertility, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6418771.stm, http://integrishealth.org/resources/on-your-health/2019/april/myths-about-men-and-fertility]
It's important to note that the occasional short hot bath is unlikely to cause significant harm. However, men trying to conceive should avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures. The ideal temperature for sperm production is significantly lower than typical bathwater temperatures. [Source: https://healthcare.utah.edu/the-scope/health-library/all/2024/08/three-common-causes-infertility-men]
