Wellness trends: Impact of saunas and ice baths on male fertility

Recent wellness trends promoted on social media suggest that practices such as using saunas and participating in ice bath “cold plunges” can boost testosterone, improve sperm health, and increase conception chances. However, experts note a distinction between general wellbeing and reproductive health.

While saunas and cold plunges may improve sleep, reduce stress, or support general wellness, there is a lack of evidence linking them directly to improved fertility. Furthermore, a common misconception exists that higher testosterone levels automatically equate to better fertility; in reality, testosterone therapy can actually suppress sperm production. The American Urological Association and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine advise against testosterone therapy for men prioritizing current or future fertility.