Ice on testicles and donating blood - the myths sold to men trying to boost their sperm
Men are increasingly adopting unproven health routines, such as applying ice to their testicles, in an attempt to boost fertility. Experts warn that these trends lack medical evidence and emphasize that general health habits are more effective than niche biohacking.
Why it matters
The rise of social media health trends can lead to misinformation and unnecessary anxiety regarding male reproductive health.
Image caption, Simon, 28, performs a multi-step routine in a bid to protect his fertility
Every morning, Simon starts his day in a sauna, with an ice pack strapped to his groin.
"I place it on the testicles in order to preserve high sperm count," he says.
He believes the heat helps him sweat out toxins, improving his sperm function - but says he must take care to protect his testicles from the excessive heat.
The 28-year-old from Miami gets daily sunlight exposure, exercises regularly, only drinks filtered water and wears cotton boxer shorts - all part of a fertility-focused health regime which he follows despite any medical evidence to prove it works.
There is an element of truth behind these claims - environmental pollutants and heating the testes can impact sperm quality.
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