How over-exercising can lead to infertility

STAYING fit and healthy is important if you want to maximise your chances of conceiving a child. But did you know that men who exercise to excess can impair their natural fertility?

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LEADING experts reveal one of the culprits behind male fertility problems.

STAYING fit and healthy and exercising regularly is important if you want to maximise your chances of conceiving a child.

But the difficult truth is that "about 30-40 per cent of men will experience impotence," says Christina Spaccavento, Acting CEO of Impotence Australia, sex therapist and relationship counsellor. Impotence can occur as a result of a medical, psychological or emotional condition, lifelong; or situational, Spaccavento notes.

Did you know that men who exercise to excess can also impair their natural fertility? Excessive exercising can raise levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which lowers testosterone levels.

"There is evidence that some endurance training can affect some men's reproductive hormone profile, in particular reducing their testosterone levels," says consultant gynaecologist Mike Bowen from the Saxon Clinic.

Bike riding presents a danger zone as well, as too much cycling can lead to impotence, according to Vinod Nargund, a urological surgeon at St Bartholomew's and Homerton Hospitals in London.

This is because of prolonged pressure from the saddle on the perineum, the area of skin behind the scrotum. This is where nerves and blood vessels enter the penis.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: As well as avoiding excessive exercise, if you cycle, try a softer saddle and stand up to pedal when possible. "Studies on volunteers have shown that cycling in a standing position does not alter penile blood supply," says Mr Nargund. "It is important to take rests intermittently during prolonged and vigorous bicycle riding."

For more information visit Impotence Australia