New Delhi: North India is currently experiencing a severe heatwave with the mercury touching 51 degrees Celsius in Rajasthan on Sunday. Seeing rapidly rising temperatures, a red alert has also been issued in states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. Moreover, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the extreme heat waves will continue for the next two to three days.
As the temperature soars, heat-related illnesses and deaths have also increased. So far India has recorded 60 heat-related deaths, as per reports. Among the serious effects of heatwave on health such as heatstroke, diarrhoea, feeling of nausea and more, studies have linked heatwave exposure to decreased semen quality in men. But can heatwave damage sperm quality?
Dr Vishal, Consultant-Urology, Fortis Hospital, Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore told News9, “Heatwaves can significantly impact sperm health, potentially reducing male fertility. Studies have shown exposure to extreme heat can lead to a decrease in sperm count, concentration, and motility (swimming ability). This is because sperm development is sensitive to temperature, and high heat can disrupt sperm production within the testes.”
According to a study, male fertility seems to decline with a temperature rise and there has been clear evidence that stress from heat waves reduces the sperm number and viability in bugs. Researchers in the study also noted that heat shock can damage male reproduction in warm-blooded animals too and earlier examinations have shown that this leads to infertility in mammals.
Even short-term heat exposure affects sperm quality
“Even short-term heat exposure during sperm development can affect sperm quality for months afterwards. Furthermore, heat can damage sperm stored within the male reproductive tract and even harm sperm that have already been inseminated. This effect can be worsened by repeated heatwaves,” added Dr Vishal.
These findings raise concerns about the potential impact of climate change on male fertility rates.
Studies have shown exposure to extreme heat can lead to a decrease in sperm count, concentration, and motility (swimming ability). Check what expert says Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
