Male infertility: How to help boost sperm quality 

The decline in semen quality is accelerating worldwide, say scientists in a recent report. Geraldine Walsh explores new genetics research and asks experts about the steps men can take to boost their chances of becoming a parent

There is evidence of a decline in sperm count and that significant decline can only come from environmental or lifestyle factors rather than genetics as genetics works over generations.

Sperm concentration has halved globally in the past 40 years and it’s accelerating, according to a study published in November 2022 in the journal Human Reproduction Update. The finding makes the need to have a conversation about male infertility increasingly urgent.

“There is evidence of a decline in sperm count and that significant decline can only come from environmental or lifestyle factors rather than genetics as genetics works over generations,” says Professor Joris Veltman, dean of Biosciences Institute at Newcastle University.