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Prevention

By Mayo Clinic staff

Many types of male infertility aren't preventable. However, there are a few things that you can avoid that are known causes of male infertility:

  • Don't have a vasectomy. If there's any possibility you'll want to father a child in the future, opt for other forms of birth control. Even if reversed, a vasectomy may still affect fertility.
  • Avoid illicit drugs. Use of anabolic steroids, marijuana and cocaine can impair sperm production.
  • Don't drink too much alcohol. Heavy drinking can impair fertility and sexual function. Drink no more than two drinks a day.
  • If you smoke tobacco, quit. Smoking is linked to impaired fertility.
  • Avoid exposure to heat. Steer clear of extended or regular use of hot tubs, saunas and steam baths. High temperatures are thought to temporarily impair sperm production.

DS01038

June 14, 2008

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