The Impact of Prolonged Sitting on Male Sexual Health
In today's fast-paced world, many men find themselves sitting for extended periods throughout the day. Dr. Zhang Zhichao, a specialist at a men's health center, emphasizes that prolonged immobility can adversely affect male sexual function. Even while seated, factors such as temperature and firmness of the seating surface play a crucial role in maintaining sexual health.
Temperature Matters: Finding the Right Balance
The prostate gland is highly sensitive to temperature variations. Cold temperatures can lead to pelvic floor muscle spasms, which may trigger prostatitis. On the other hand, excessive heat can harm the testes. When temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius, sperm quality diminishes, ultimately affecting reproductive capabilities. Therefore, during winter outdoor activities, men should carry a seat cushion to prevent sitting directly on cold surfaces. Additionally, it is advisable to limit visits to hot environments like saunas and steam rooms, as these can have negative effects on male reproductive health.
The Importance of Firmness: Choosing the Right Seating
Seating that is overly firm can increase pressure on pelvic organs, leading to dysfunction in pelvic floor muscles and potentially causing prostate congestion, which may result in prostatitis. For men who frequently ride bicycles, ensuring the bike seat is properly adjusted and adding a cushion can reduce pressure on the prostate.
Conversely, seating that is excessively soft, such as a plush sofa, may cause the body to sink too deeply, increasing compressive forces on the pelvic region. This pressure can interfere with temperature regulation in the scrotum, causing an unwanted rise in testes temperature and adversely affecting reproductive health. Men with overly soft sofas should consider placing a firmer cushion on top to help mitigate these issues.
Combatting the Dangers of Extended Sitting
Regardless of the comfort level of the seating, prolonged sitting is counterproductive. Men who work as taxi drivers or are office-bound should aim to stand up and move every 40 minutes for about 8 to 10 minutes. This practice is especially critical for taxi drivers, who not only sit for long hours but often experience elevated seat temperatures due to the engine's heat. Therefore, drivers should make it a habit to stop periodically, take a few deep breaths of fresh air, and stretch their legs to promote better circulation and health.
Conclusion
In summary, men should pay attention to their seating conditions with respect to temperature and firmness, as these factors significantly affect prostate and reproductive health. Regular breaks from sitting can also contribute to improved overall well-being. By implementing these strategies, men can better support their sexual health and enhance their quality of life.