Health
Here are four reasons men should not bath with hot water

Hot baths might seem like a perfect way to relax after a long day, but scientists caution that men should think twice before indulging in this seemingly harmless pleasure.
Here’s a deeper look into why men should avoid hot baths, particularly due to their impact on sperm production and overall reproductive health.
1. Affects sperm production
The primary concern with hot baths is their effect on sperm production. The testes are located outside the body because they require a cooler temperature to produce healthy sperm.
The optimal temperature for sperm production is around 34-35°C (93-95°F), slightly lower than the average body temperature of 37°C (98.6°F).
When men take hot baths, the temperature of the scrotum can rise significantly, disrupting the delicate environment needed for spermatogenesis (the production of sperm).
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to a decrease in sperm count, motility (movement), and overall sperm quality.
Studies have shown that men who regularly use hot tubs or take hot baths may experience temporary reductions in fertility.
2. Increases risk of testicular damage
Extended exposure to high temperatures doesn’t just affect sperm production; it can also cause heat stress to the testes, potentially leading to long-term damage.
Heat stress can impair the function of the Sertoli cells, which play a crucial role in nurturing developing sperm cells. If these cells are damaged, it can lead to long-term issues with fertility.
3. Hormonal imbalance
Heat exposure can also affect the endocrine system, which regulates hormone production.
The hypothalamus, which controls the release of hormones related to reproductive function, can be disrupted by excessive heat. This disruption can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect overall reproductive health.
4. Varicocele complications
For men with varicocele, a condition characterized by enlarged veins within the scrotum, hot baths can exacerbate the problem.
Heat can cause these veins to dilate further, leading to increased pressure and discomfort. This can also worsen the impact on sperm production and overall testicular health.
Tips for maintaining optimal reproductive health
To protect reproductive health, men should consider the following tips:
- Limit exposure to heat: Avoid prolonged use of hot tubs, saunas, and hot baths. If you do indulge, keep the duration short.
- Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing can increase the temperature of the scrotum. Opt for loose-fitting underwear and pants to promote better air circulation.
- Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature and supports overall health.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can improve overall reproductive health.
- Regular check-ups: Regular medical check-ups can help identify and address any potential issues early.
While a hot bath might offer temporary relaxation, the potential long-term effects on sperm production and reproductive health are significant concerns.
Men should be mindful of their exposure to high temperatures and take steps to protect their reproductive health. By making small adjustments to daily habits, men can help ensure they maintain optimal fertility and overall well-being.
Health
5 diseases you can contract from going to the gym

Did you know there are certain infections you can get from using gym equipment?
While going to the gym is good for your physical and mental health, the equipment used in the gym is public equipment that can lead to different infections and diseases.
Here are five diseases you can contract from going to the gym:
Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection that can appear anywhere on the body and causes scaly circles and red lumps. Wet gym floors or shared, filthy towels are ideal habitats for it.
It can spread before symptoms show up and is very contagious. The common skin areas affected are the back, buttocks, chest, and thighs.
The two main symptoms are itching and little round pimples.
Use antifungal cream after working out and don’t exchange gym towels with other people to prevent infection.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is a common condition that occurs in dirty gyms characterised by irritated hair follicles, which cause acne or itchy red pimples.
Sharing towels, using unclean gym equipment, and using unchlorinated swimming pools and hot tubs are all easy ways to contract it.
Also, clothing that is too tight might clog hair follicles, leaving people vulnerable. Bathe after working out and clean sweaty gym equipment before use to avoid folliculitis.
Herpes
Herpes, a sexually transmitted infection, can cause genital warts or cold sores and can be contracted through open cuts or mouth blisters that can be contracted in the gym.
It can also spread through sharing saliva with infected people, utensils, razors, gym equipment, or towels.
Plantar warts
Plantar warts, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), are bumpy, rough, and tender-to-touch clusters on feet or hands that can be contracted in gyms by walking barefoot, especially in damp areas, and using contaminated equipment.
Some HPV types may cause cervical cancer and genital warts.
Staphylococcus Aureus Staph
Staphylococcus Aureus also known as staph is a bacteria found on the skin and in the nose, and can be transferred to gym equipment if touched.
Infections can cause rash, boil, swelling, and fevers. Staph infections are usually mild, except for MRSA, a more aggressive strain resistant to many antibiotics.
When working out in a public gym, make sure you use hand sanitiser and wet wipes to clean the equipment and avoid sharing towels.
Health
ICPC warns against unchecked herbal mixtures, calls for strict regulation

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has called on the Nigerian Natural Medicines Development Agency (NNMDA) to address the proliferation of unregulated herbal medicines in the country.
Kabir Elelu, ICPC resident commissioner for Lagos state, made the call at a one-day training titled, “Building a Transparent and Accountable Public Institution and Inauguration of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the NNMDA”.
Elelu expressed concern over the unchecked sale of herbal mixtures by hawkers as the consumption of such substances posed severe health risks.
“One particular area I want you to look at is the area of this natural medicine; how do we harness them and protect public health? You also need to look at how it has been bastardised by hawkers and some of them are killing our people,” he said.
“I want the agency to look into this and come out with a solution because it is a huge problem; it is a problem in all areas of the country with all kinds of concoctions that are killing our people.
“Now, we have high rate of liver cirrhosis and all kinds of diseases that can be associated with the intake of herbal concoctions.”
On his part, Martins Emeje, NNMDA’s director-general, said the agency is commitment to transparency in research and natural medicines development.
Emeje described the inauguration of ACTU members as a significant step toward fostering transparency and fighting corruption.
“With transparency, we are driving the principle of Renewal of Hope to develop natural medicines,” he said.
“Most of our medicines are imported and that is the narrative we are changing; so, within one and a half years, we have proven that Nigeria can do it transparently without stealing.”
Health
Studies reveal causes of secondary infertility

Nancy Umeh, the Nigerian chef and public scientist, recently revealed her seven-year battle with secondary infertility — a journey that ultimately led her to embrace surrogacy for her third child.
Secondary infertility is a condition that affects countless couples worldwide but often goes unspoken. Despite its prevalence, it remains a silent struggle for many.
A study reveals that 52 percent of couples in Africa struggle with secondary infertility. Another research found that the prevalence of secondary infertility is approximately equal to that of primary infertility.
What is secondary infertility?
Secondary infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a baby to term after previously giving birth without any fertility treatments. It affects men and women equally.
What causes secondary infertility?
Several factors can contribute to secondary infertility. These factors include:
- Age
Biologically, fertility is at its peak around age 20. It begins to decline at 30, and the decline speeds up after age 35.
So, age plays a role in secondary infertility. A 2018 study showed that couples experiencing secondary infertility were older than those with primary infertility.
While healthy couples in their 20s and early 30s have a 25 percent chance of getting pregnant in a cycle, that number drops precipitously when the woman is older.
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, a woman’s chance of pregnancy success is less than 5% per cycle at age 40. This is because the quantity and quality of a woman’s eggs decline with age.
- Ovulation disorders
Ovulation disorders are one of the most common causes of secondary infertility. According to studies, 40% of women battling infertility do not consistently ovulate.
The problem of ovulation is caused by several reasons including:
- The most common cause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)
- Decreased egg production related to aging
- Thyroid or other endocrine disorders that affect hormone production and
- Lifestyle factors, such as weight, nutrition, and alcohol or drug misuse
- Problems with the uterus or blocked fallopian tubes
These cause secondary infertility. If there is a blockage in the fallopian tubes, sperm and egg may not be able to meet. Blockage can be caused by surgery or pelvic infection.
The uterus may also have a structural or tissue defect that prevents implantation. Endometriosis, uterine fibroids uterus scarring (during surgery like C-section), and abnormality in the shape of the uterus are among the conditions that can affect the uterus.
- Infections
Sexually transmitted infections can cause pelvic inflammatory disease.
This can lead to scarring and blockage of the fallopian tubes which ultimately leads to infertility.
- Men factors
Factors like low testosterone levels, testicular varicocele, enlarged prostate and low sperm count and mobility are some causes of secondary infertility in men.
About 30% of infertile men have a testicular varicocele. An enlargement of veins in the scrotum can cause low sperm production.
An enlarged prostate can lower sperm count and make it hard to have a normal ejaculation.
What are the symptoms of secondary infertility?
The major symptom of secondary infertility is the inability to conceive after a year of trying.
However, other symptoms are caused by other factors. They include:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
Absent or inconsistent menstruation may indicate hormonal imbalance or ovulation disorders. Meanwhile, these conditions affect the ability to conceive.
- Painful periods
- Hormonal changes like changes in weight and sexual desire, excessive hair growth, and acne.
How can secondary infertility be treated?
There are various options to improve the chances of conceiving. However, the treatment option will depend on the cause of infertility and sometimes personal preference.
Here are the treatment options available for secondary infertility:
- Medications
There are several medication options. For infection, there are drugs used to treat the infection and also improve fertility.
There are also drugs like clomiphene (Clomid) and letrozole used to stimulate hormones and help women ovulate.
- Surgery
Surgery is most recommended when there is a structural problem in the uterus or fallopian tubes.
A minimally invasive procedure called a hysteroscopy is used to treat endometriosis, clear fallopian tube blockages, or remove scar tissue, polyps, and fibroids from the uterus.
In men, surgery is most commonly used to remove varicoceles. Surgery also can fix blocked or scarred epididymis tubes that store and carry sperm.
- Advanced Reproductive Technology (ART)
The two common procedures are intrauterine insemination (IUI) and IVF.
With IUI, sperm is collected and then inserted into the uterus at the time of ovulation.
In IVF, an egg is removed from the woman’s ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilised egg, called an embryo, is then returned to the woman’s womb to grow and develop.
The procedures have a 24% success rate, according to 2019 CDC data.
To improve the chances of getting pregnant, maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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