Gentlemen, isn’t it true that choosing the right underwear, while seemingly simple, can be a real headache? Choosing between boxer shorts and briefs is almost a philosophical question. However, contrary to what you might think, this choice is not so trivial, since it could have an impact on your fertility.
In fact, according to several sources, there’s a 50% decline in sperm concentration linked to the choice of underwear, and even to the choice of profession. How can the right underwear improve your fertility? In this article, we decipher the myths and realities about the relationship between underwear and fertility in the light of recent studies.
The science behind testicular thermoregulation
According to the latest medical studies, the testicles need to remain at 34°C – 3 to 4°C lower than the body – for optimal spermatogenesis. This is because the cells that produce sperm, known as germ cells, are sensitive to temperature. Excessive heat can harm these cells, reducing their ability to generate healthy sperm and even causing them to die out.
What’s more, if you’re wondering why your testicles are hanging down, it’s obviously a question of natural thermal regulation. The cremaster muscle, located in the scrotum, raises or lowers the testicles according to ambient temperature.
So, when the testicles are exposed to high temperatures, there’s a risk of overheating the germ cells. This can lead to a 25% reduction in sperm concentration in the testicles, and a 33% drop in motility. It can also increase damage to sperm DNA.
In addition, men working in high-temperature conditions are more exposed to these risks, for example bakers, drivers or men who sit for long periods.
Briefs, boxer shorts or briefs: the scientific match
Loose-fitting briefs, champions of fertility
According to a 2018 Human Reproduction study of 656 men, loose-fitting boxer briefs promote better fertility. Men who wear this type of underwear enjoy over 25% higher sperm concentration and over 33% more motile sperm. This is because better testicular aeration and adequate scrotal temperature help sperm production and mobility. In other words, the looser your testicles are, the more fertile you’ll be. So wearing loose-fitting boxer shorts as underwear increases your chances of holding your baby.
Tight briefs and boxers, bad pupils?
On the other hand, tight briefs and boxers have the opposite effect. When the testicles are compressed against the body, their temperature rises to over 16°C above normal body temperature. This puts sperm production and mobility at risk. However, when the testicles are under thermal pressure, there is a high production of FSH (stimulating) hormone. This is a sign of testicular stress. This is a hormonal paradox, as FSH usually favors sperm creation.
The case of boxer shorts
Between baggy boxer shorts and too-tight underwear, boxer shorts offer an alternative solution. However, they are less effective than briefs for fertility.
Thermal contraception: the irony of briefs
While heat may seem to pose a problem for fertility, it does offer other possibilities, particularly in terms of contraception. Indeed, studies have led to what appears to be a paradoxical innovation: heated briefs, a reversible contraceptive method.
As a contraceptive method, heated briefs are worn for 15 hours a day for three months. They raise the temperature of the testicles to reduce sperm production. So, “Your briefs can be a contraceptive… but not the way you think!” In fact, heated briefs are designed to raise the testicles and keep them close to the body. This increases their temperature, which inhibits sperm production and can lead to temporary infertility.
Practical advice: optimize your fertility on a daily basis
There are a number of ways to stimulate sperm production and mobility and enjoy good fertility.
Rule no. 1: opt for loose-fitting cotton shorts (breathability).
There are several reasons why we recommend loose-fitting cotton boxer shorts. Cotton is natural, soft and breathable. Loose-fitting cotton briefs allow the skin to breathe and reduce the risk of irritation and allergies, particularly in sensitive areas.
In addition, loose-fitting cotton underwear allows better air circulation and greater freedom of movement, which can contribute to healthy sperm production.
Rule n°2: at night, let it all out!
Going without underwear at night increases sperm quality by 25%. In fact, not wearing clothes while sleeping promotes better sperm quality by cooling the testicles. As a result, they will be at a slightly lower temperature than the rest of the body. Sleeping without underwear therefore stimulates optimal sperm production.
Rule n°3: More freshness.
For good fertility, avoid tight pants, prolonged sitting positions and heat sources such as saunas and laptops on your lap. For example, one study found that a laptop resting on your lap can raise testicular temperature by 2.5°C in an hour. By reducing these factors, you can improve sperm quality and quantity, which can boost your fertility. In addition, move around regularly to aerate your crotch. These tips are crucial if your sperm are already fragile. However, if this is not the case, the impact may be less.
The bottom line is that the choice of underwear – whether boxers, briefs or briefs – has a considerable impact on male fertility. As spermatozoa are sensitive to heat, underwear that is too tight can raise their temperature, affecting their production and mobility.
So, between tight boxer shorts, briefs or loose-fitting cotton shorts, the best choice for your fertility remains loose-fitting shorts, which facilitate good aeration of the testicles. Similarly, sleeping in the nude or airing your crotches daily are additional tips for boosting your fertility.
