Sauna and Fertility | The Effect of Sauna on Male and Female Fertility

The sauna affects men and women differently – it temporarily reduces sperm quality but supports hormonal balance and women’s health. Discover what studies say.

Introduction

Are you planning a family or interested in your reproductive health? You may have heard that sauna use can affect fertility. The truth is that the effects of sauna bathing differ between men and women. While in men heat can temporarily reduce sperm quality, in women the sauna supports hormonal balance and overall reproductive health.

1. Clinical studies and evidence

Men
The study by Jung A. et al. (2001) showed that regular exposure to heat (e.g., sauna) can temporarily reduce sperm count and motility. However, these effects are reversible, and sperm quality recovers within 2–3 months.
Link to the study
Women
Research suggests that sauna helps reduce stress, balances cortisol levels, and supports the release of endorphins, which may positively influence fertility and the menstrual cycle.
Link to the study

2. Mechanism of effect of sauna use

1. Male fertility – high temperatures in the sauna temporarily reduce sperm quality, as sperm cells are sensitive to heat.
2. Female fertility – sauna reduces stress and supports hormonal balance, which may facilitate ovulation and menstrual cycles.
3. Mental well-being – lower stress and better mood increase the chances of natural conception.

3. Patient experiences and expert videos

Saunas and fertility
The episode explores a real-life case study in which a couple — Mel and Justin — struggle with unexplained infertility. The discussion then moves on to the broader topic of how saunning affects fertility in both men and women.
Sauna destroys male fertility
In this podcast, I discuss an article that shows a significant reduction in sperm concentration (almost 75%), total sperm count (2/3), and sperm motility (half) after just two 15-minute sauna sessions per week for three months (PMID 23411620).

4. Risks and limitations

Men who are trying to conceive should limit very frequent or prolonged sauna sessions. Sauna is not recommended for women during pregnancy (especially in the first trimester). In cases of hormonal or reproductive disorders, it is advisable to consult sauna use with a doctor.

5. Link to other articles

6. Summary (scientific)

Sauna has different effects on male and female fertility. In men, it can temporarily reduce sperm quality, but the effect is reversible. In women, sauna supports hormonal balance and mental health, which may indirectly support fertility.

Summary in human language

If you are planning a family, the sauna can help you relax and support overall health. However, men should keep in mind that heat temporarily lowers sperm quality. For women, sauna may help balance the cycle and reduce stress.