A medical expert tells 211 Check that normally, Exposure to high temperatures, like hot baths and saunas can cause the temperature of the testes to become too hot. This can kill sperm and lower sperm count. However, this effect is only temporary, and counts will go back to normal once the hot tub is avoided.

By 211 Check Editorial Team

“Going to the sauna can cause infertility in men. Your balls are not designed for that kind of temperature!” reads a Facebook post.

211 Check, fact-checked the claim:

Findings:

A medical practitioner, in Juba, Case Nicholas Thomas, tells 211 Check that “It is not proven yet, but it is believed that going to the sauna for hot tubs or hot baths can raise the temperature of the testes, eventually killing sperm and lowering sperm count!”

According to him, no study has shown that going to the sauna can cause infertility to men, it is just a belief of the people yet.

Another doctor, Lasu Kenyigo Sallah, tells 211 Check that normally, Exposure to high temperatures, like hot baths and  saunas can cause the temperature of the testes to become too hot. This can kill sperm and lower sperm count. However, this effect is only temporary, and counts will go back to normal once the hot tub is avoided.

He, however, warns that prolonged exposure has a significant effect in the long run. Men’s testicles hang outside basically because the temperature of the body is hot (35.6° to 36.8°). And also when the temperature outside is too cold, they will move inside. This is how they manage their economy. So, it is advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to sauna especially those in mid 30s and above.

A study, conducted by researchers at the University of Padova in Italy, published online in the journal Human Reproduction also says frequent visits to the sauna may lower men’s sperm count, although the effect appears to be temporary. 

Conclusion:

It is NOT PROVEN that going to the sauna can cause male infertility.

Still, most fertility experts would advise that men having trouble conceiving should keep their testicles cool. Hot baths, showers and wearing tight-fitting underwear can all raise the temperature of the testicles.

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