Impact of Temperature on Male Fertility: Concerns and Solutions

The Impact of Temperature on Fertility

1.
I often play baseball and wear a protective cup to safeguard my groin; however, the cup has poor breathability, which may lead to increased temperature in the testicles.
I would like to ask the doctor if this long-term situation could affect my fertility in the future.
How can I assess the current impact? If testing is necessary, what would the approximate costs be?
2.
If the angle of penile curvature is greater than 30 degrees, making sexual intercourse difficult, is surgery necessary? What would be the approximate costs for the surgery and hospitalization? Thank you for your assistance.

Jacky, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/01/13

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello Jacky,
1.
Wearing thicker or non-breathable clothing can indeed have a negative effect on the temperature of the scrotum.
Generally speaking, if such clothing is only worn during exercise, it rarely affects sperm production, so there is no need to worry about this.
(Otherwise, professional baseball catchers might be paid very high salaries, or else it would be hard to find anyone for the job.)
2.
For testing, typically a semen analysis is sufficient, and the costs are covered by the nearly bankrupt (just kidding) National Health Insurance Bureau.
3.
Regarding penile curvature surgery, if there is pain during erection or intercourse, some physicians may consider it eligible for coverage under the National Health Insurance.
However, some doctors may view it as a cosmetic procedure and insist that it must be paid out-of-pocket, so you might want to inquire about this.
I suggest that you take digital camera (DC) images of various angles while erect and bring them to your appointment for the physician's reference, or print them out and provide them to be attached to your medical record for review by the National Health Insurance Bureau.
If the physician is willing to take the risk of rejection by the insurance bureau and agrees to use insurance for your case, you would only need to pay 10% of the costs, which might only amount to a few thousand dollars.
If it must be out-of-pocket, make sure to clarify this in advance, as standards may vary between hospitals.
(Currently, our hospital has not had similar patients undergoing surgery, so I cannot provide you with an exact amount.)
Sincerely,
Director of Urology,
Xu Wei-kai,
Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan

Reply Date: 2005/01/13

More Info

The impact of temperature on male fertility is a significant concern, particularly for those who engage in activities that may inadvertently raise the temperature of the testes, such as wearing poorly ventilated athletic supporters during sports like baseball. The testes are located outside the body in the scrotum, which is designed to maintain a temperature that is approximately 1-2 degrees Celsius lower than the body's core temperature. This lower temperature is crucial for optimal spermatogenesis (the production of sperm).
When the temperature of the testes rises due to external factors—such as tight clothing, prolonged sitting, or exposure to high ambient temperatures—it can negatively affect sperm quality. Studies have shown that elevated temperatures can lead to decreased sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, and even reduced sperm count. Over time, chronic exposure to high temperatures can result in long-term fertility issues.
To assess the current impact on your fertility, a semen analysis is typically recommended. This test evaluates various parameters of sperm health, including count, motility, and morphology. The cost of a semen analysis can vary widely depending on the laboratory and location, but it generally ranges from $100 to $300 in the United States. It is advisable to consult with a urologist or a fertility specialist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and discuss any necessary tests.

Regarding the curvature of the penis, if the angle exceeds 30 degrees and interferes with sexual intercourse, it may indicate a condition known as Peyronie's disease. This condition can be caused by scar tissue that forms inside the penis, leading to painful erections and difficulty during sexual activity. Surgical intervention may be necessary if the curvature is severe and causes significant distress or functional impairment.
The decision to proceed with surgery should be made in consultation with a qualified urologist, who can assess the severity of the curvature and discuss potential surgical options. The costs associated with penile surgery can vary significantly based on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and the facility charges. On average, the total cost for surgery, including hospitalization, can range from $5,000 to $15,000.

In summary, both temperature management and addressing anatomical concerns are crucial for maintaining male fertility. If you are experiencing issues related to temperature exposure or penile curvature, it is essential to seek professional medical advice. A urologist can provide tailored recommendations and treatment options based on your specific circumstances. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as wearing breathable clothing and avoiding prolonged heat exposure, can help protect your fertility in the long run.

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