- It is unknown how the myth of masturbation lowering a man's sperm count started. It could have been told to boys to discourage masturbation. Sperm count is of major concern to livestock industries, which have noted that the second or third breeding of the day produces a lower sperm count than the first. However, there is still enough sperm in the ejaculate to get a fertile female pregnant. The same has held true for men being tested for sperm counts. They are often asked to not have sex or to masterbate two to five days before getting their semen analyzed.
- If a couple is trying to have a baby, then the male will be advised by a fertility specialist not to masturbate in order to give the female the best possible chance at getting pregnant. This may also have given rise to the notion that frequent masturbation may lower sperm count.
- Masturbation could actually be good for improving fertility. If a man does not ejaculate every week or two, then the sperm becomes old and inactive, making them unable to make the arduous journey to the egg. Regular ejaculations help keep the sperm as young and vigorous as possible (see Resources).
- Although masturbation does not greatly affect your sperm count, there are many other things that can. These include illness (even a mild fever can lower your sperm count); stress; smoking; taking illegal drugs; malnutrition; obesity and damage from a lot of bike riding. Another more common reason for low sperm count is wearing underwear or pants that are too tight. This brings the testicles close to the body and overheats the sperm, making them malformed and unable to swim normally.
- If you do have a low sperm count, you need to talk with a doctor about helping increase your chances of you and your partner having a baby. Despite the claims of many products, only good overall health raises a man's sperm count, and sometimes not even that. Some men do have genetic problems that make them unable to raise their sperm count. Having cystic fibrosis also can keep your sperm count low.
