Cross SectionalHumann = 992002
Impact of diurnal scrotal temperature on semen quality.
Plain-language summary
This study set out to look at how scrotal temperature affects semen quality in healthy men. It tracked 99 men over 24 hours, measuring scrotal skin temperature continuously and collecting semen and blood samples. The study found that higher scrotal temperature was linked to lower sperm concentration and total sperm count, with a 40 percent drop in sperm concentration for every 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) rise in daytime scrotal temperature. Sedentary positions raised scrotal temperature, and no relationship was found between them and semen quality.
Key findings
- Higher scrotal temperature was linked to lower sperm concentration and total sperm count.
- Sperm concentration dropped 40 percent for every 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) rise in daytime scrotal temperature.
- Sedentary positions raised scrotal temperature, and no relationship was found with semen quality.
- For motility, morphology, pH and testosterone, no relationship with scrotal temperature was found.
How to analyze the study yourself
- Study type
- Cross-sectional studies measure variables at one point in time, so they can show associations but cannot prove cause and effect.
- Population
- The study included 99 healthy men.
- Funding
- Not reported
- Takeaway
- This study found that higher scrotal temperature was linked to lower sperm concentration and total sperm count. If you are trying to conceive, it may be worth keeping your testicles cool.