In 2006, two men being treated for infertility at the Cornell Medical Center in New York were found to have developed low counts of healthy sperm. The men were also being treated with selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as the antidepressants Paxil and Prozac. When the men stopped taking the drugs, under medical supervision, they no longer had problems with their fertility.
A more recent (2008) study of 35 men given the drug Paxil found that SSRIs can have a negative effect on the number and motility of sperm. The research, by noted fertility specialists Peter Schlegel and Cigdem Tanrikut of the Cornell Medical Center, was published in New Scientist magazine.
While doctors warn that no one should ever go off Paxil, Prozac or any prescribed SSRIs without first consulting his prescribing physician, there are tips men can follow to help increase their sperm count in general.
Instructions
1. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the medications you are taking, and to come up with a fertility plan.
2. Take a daily multivitamin to help boost sperm production.
3. If you smoke, drink excessively or take illegal drugs, stop. The sperm of men who smoke may be deformed and slow-moving; heavy drinking can reduce the number of sperm; and illegal drugs can wreak havoc on sperm, and even cause erectile dysfunction.
4. Wear boxer shorts or loose-fitting underwear. Tight underwear or pants can cause a rise in temperature that may harm the body's production of sperm. Also avoid spending too much time in a hot tub or sauna.
5. Get healthy. If you're carrying extra weight, lose a few pounds. Exercise moderately and eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
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