Why More Men Are Freezing Their Sperm: The Surprising ‘Sixth Vital Sign’ You Didn’t Know About

Posted on 09 July 2025 by Priya Nair 4 min

Did you know sperm health is being called the ‘sixth vital sign’ for men? It might sound like something out of a futuristic health check, but this is very real and very timely. Recently, an eye-opening article in Popular Science titled Should I freeze my sperm? Men consider their ‘sixth vital sign.’ shed light on a growing trend among men — taking fertility seriously by freezing their sperm for future use.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Wait, men need to worry about this too?” you’re not alone. Historically, fertility discussions centered mostly on women. But as science advances and our understanding deepens, men’s reproductive health is finally stepping into the spotlight.

Why are men freezing their sperm now?

The article highlights a key cultural shift. More men are proactively preserving their fertility, seeing sperm health as an essential measure of well-being — just like blood pressure or heart rate. With lifestyle stressors, environmental toxins, and age impacting sperm quality, freezing sperm is becoming a smart insurance policy for many.

Consider this: men in their late 30s and beyond are increasingly choosing to freeze sperm before fertility naturally declines, similar to egg freezing among women. It’s not just about postponing fatherhood; it’s about taking control and reducing future heartbreak.

What’s behind this “sixth vital sign” idea?

Doctors and researchers propose including sperm count and quality as a routine health indicator for men. Why? Because it reflects overall health in ways many don’t appreciate — from hormonal balance to lifestyle choices. It’s a wake-up call that reproductive health matters for everyone, not just when you’re trying to conceive.

So, what if you’re considering sperm freezing? What should you know?

  • Quality varies: Age, diet, stress, and health conditions all influence sperm quality.
  • It’s not just for cancer patients: While freezing sperm before cancer treatment is well-known, this practice is no longer limited to medical emergencies.
  • It can be affordable and convenient: Thanks to advancements in technology and companies like MakeAMom, preserving fertility at-home or through trusted clinics is becoming increasingly accessible.

Speaking of MakeAMom — changing the at-home fertility game

If you’re thinking, “But what if I want to take fertility matters into my own hands?” the team at MakeAMom offers at-home insemination kits designed for different needs, including for those facing unique challenges like sensitivities or low sperm motility. Their BabyMaker kit, for example, is great for a gentle, effective approach to insemination — a valuable tool if you’ve preserved sperm or are exploring alternative conception methods.

The beauty of this approach is that it respects privacy and convenience, with discreet packaging and reusable kits that save money compared to traditional options. This aligns perfectly with the modern fertility journey — personalized, empowering, and tech-savvy.

What’s the takeaway here?

Men’s fertility is no longer a taboo or an afterthought. It’s becoming a mainstream health priority. If you’re thinking about your future family or simply want to be on top of your health, sperm freezing is worth considering — even if it feels a bit strange at first. It’s not just about biology; it’s about freedom and peace of mind.

If you want to learn more about how you can take control of your fertility journey, whether through sperm freezing or at-home insemination, I recommend checking out resources like MakeAMom’s BabyMaker kit. It’s a great first step toward making conception less clinical and more personal.

And hey, if you’re still skeptical, remember — the science is evolving, and so should we. Fertility planning is for everyone. How are you thinking about your reproductive health? Would you consider freezing sperm or exploring at-home options? Let’s get the conversation going in the comments!

Article Inspiration: Should I freeze my sperm? Men consider their ‘sixth vital sign.’ from Popular Science