Does wearing briefs really have a negative impact on male fertility?

OUR resident specialist and NHS GP, Dr Zoe Williams, shares her expert advice. Today, Dr Zoe helps a reader who wants to know more about the connection between male fertility and wearing briefs. Dr Zoe gives you health advice Some studies suggest men who wear looser underwear, such as boxers, may have slightly better sperm counts Credit: Peter Dazeley Q) DOES wearing briefs really have a negative impact on male fertility? A) Thank you for this question, as it may leave some scratching their heads. Sign up for the Health newsletter Thank you! But there are many misconceptions out there about things that affect male sperm and some of them are simply not true, while others are exaggerated or confuse the research. Sperm production works best when testicles are slightly cooler than core body temperature, which is why there has long been interest in whether tighter underwear affects sperm quality. Some studies suggest men who wear looser underwear, such as boxers, may have slightly better sperm counts or concentration than those wearing tighter briefs. But this does not mean briefs make men infertile. For most men, underwear choice is only one small factor among many. If you are actively trying for a baby, choosing looser, breathable underwear is a simple, low-risk step. Most read in Health Also, avoid frequent hot baths, saunas or resting laptops on the lap. But if you and your partner have been trying for 12 months – or six months if they are over 35 – arrange fertility checks, including a semen analysis. TIP: Some eczema sufferers take antihistamines to help ease itchiness, but a recent study suggests they are not effective. My biggest tip to stop itchy skin is to apply cold moisturiser, which has been kept in the fridge, regularly. To prevent tears in the skin from scratching, use a scratch tool that offers gentle relief (cosi-care.com), which is great for kids, too. Comment now