24/02/2025
Question: Does Gymming affect male infertility?
Answer: In all men with infertility or with abnormal semen, parameters a very important, an important history to ask is whether they are into gyming and whether they take any supplements.
A few supplements give a boost of energy to gymers and athletes to do more vigorous strength training. Some of these supplements contain what is called anabolic, steroids or androgenic steroids. They have a testosterone-like effect on the body. Some may even have various forms of testosterone.
Testosterone is vital for s***matogenesis or production of s***m, it thus maintains male fertility, but this testosterone should be intratesticular testosterone produced inside the te**is by Leydig cells which is further concentrated in the seminiferous tubules where s***m production happens. This testicular testosterone production is stimulated by LH. FSH also supports s***matogenesis.
If someone take testosterone or steroids that have testosterone-like effects, this testosterone in the blood sends signals to the pituitary to decrease FSH and LH. Thus endogenous, intratesticular testosterone production actually decreases when testosterone is given in the form of medicines or injections.
So, a healthy lifestyle and gymming are beneficial for male fertility if any such supplements are not included.