Between social obligations, work and family, it can be difficult for anyone to find enough time to get adequate sleep. Sleep deprivation can have harmful effects, from fatigue and drowsiness to loss of focus and irritability. Sleep should be a priority, for optimal health and mental well-being, regardless of gender. However, are there sex-specific issues that can arise with lack of sleep? Maybe you are trying to conceive or maybe you’re just concerned about the health of your reproductive organs (as most of us are), either way sleep plays a huge role in these areas of your life. Researchers have recently found that sleep can affect a man’s reproductive health in a variety of areas. Members of the male sex should focus on how sleep is affecting their health.
If you are a male and trying to conceive, note a study published by the Boston University School of Public Health, which found that missing out on sleep could potentially affect a male’s ability to impregnate their partner. Men who slept too much or too little were about 43% less likely to impregnate their partner. Similarly, men who reported frequent sleeping issues, were 28% less likely to conceive. Those males who slept between six and nine hours each night, were much more likely to conceive, as they followed a healthy sleep cycle. The researchers also noted that sleep issues have been associated with poor sperm quality and a decrease in testosterone.
Lack of sleep can also affect men’s reproductive health in indirect ways. For example, long-term sleep deprivation can increase an individual’s risk of disease and medical conditions that affect fertility and reproductive health. These include diabetes, stroke, weight gain and cardiovascular issues. Also, as previously noted, missing out on sleep can also lead to irritability, loss of focus and fatigue. This can cause problems in relationships and can lead to loss of intimacy and increased stress.
What does this mean for the male sex? Well, prioritize your reproductive health by prioritizing sleep. People may forget how much sleep affects their reproductive health, relationships and well-being. If you are of the male sex or know someone of the male sex who is struggling with sleep, then act! Work on creating a sleep schedule each day so that you do not oversleep or undersleep. Turn off all lights at night and create a comfortable and safe environment to sleep. Finally, if you are still struggling to fall asleep, try Som Sleep. With no preservatives, GMOs or drugs, the sleep drink is a healthy choice for those individuals who are passionate about health and who want to gain a few extra zzzs.