Specialist Doctor Level 2 Nguyen Van Phuc, from the Andrology Department at Military Central Hospital 108, notes that hot tub bathing is often seen as an effective way to relax after a tiring day. However, few realize that regularly and prolonged soaking in hot water, especially during cold seasons, can affect male reproductive function, specifically spermatogenesis in the testicles.
Unlike most other organs, the testicles are located outside the abdominal cavity, within the scrotum. This anatomical design is not random; it ensures the testicles operate at a temperature approximately 2-3 degrees Celsius lower than the body's core temperature. This is the ideal condition for normal sperm production.
When the temperature around the testicles increases and is sustained, spermatogenesis can be inhibited. Studies indicate that high temperatures reduce sperm count, decrease motility, and can affect sperm morphology.
When men immerse themselves in a hot tub, especially in high-temperature water, the entire scrotal area and testicles are enveloped in an environment hotter than the normal physiological level. If this situation occurs frequently, the testicles do not have sufficient time to "cool down", leading to prolonged elevation of scrotal temperature, reduced spermatogenesis efficiency, and a temporary impact on sperm quality.
"This impact does not cause immediate infertility, but it can accumulate over time, especially for men with existing risk factors," said Doctor Phuc.
Not every man who takes hot tub baths will experience reproductive issues. However, certain groups should exercise caution, including those planning to conceive, individuals previously diagnosed with low, poor motility, or abnormal sperm, men with varicocele, and those working in high-temperature environments. Individuals with a habit of prolonged, sedentary hot tub bathing should also be mindful. Even a temporary increase in testicular temperature can exacerbate existing conditions.
Are the effects reversible?
The effects of high temperatures on the testicles are typically temporary, provided the cause is eliminated. When men limit prolonged exposure to high temperatures, testicular spermatogenesis function can gradually recover.
However, the process of spermatogenesis takes approximately 70-90 days; therefore, if affected, a sufficiently long period is required for sperm quality to improve. This explains why some men do not notice immediate changes but encounter difficulties when examining semen analysis results after maintaining unsuitable habits for a period.
Doctor Phuc stated that completely avoiding hot tub bathing is not necessary. The issue is not "to bathe or not", but rather how to bathe reasonably. One can limit excessively hot water temperatures and avoid soaking for too long (preferably under 15 minutes). Do not maintain a habit of daily hot soaks. Avoid continuous hot tub bathing for many consecutive days.
Male reproductive function depends not only on age or medical conditions but is also significantly influenced by lifestyle and daily habits. Hot tub bathing in winter is a prime example of a seemingly harmless habit that can have long-term effects if not appropriately adjusted.
Le Nga
