Talking with Thalia

Male Fertility Crisis: Why Sperm Counts Are Plummeting & What You Can Do About It

Infertility in Men Has Reached an All-Time High: Here's Why and What You Can Do

This week on Talking with Thalia, we shed light on a topic that’s long been in the shadows—male infertility. According to the National Library of Medicine, sperm counts have plummeted by 50% in the last 40 years—a shocking statistic that demands attention.

Joining Thalia to unpack this issue is Doug Murphy, the CEO of Fertile Fruit, a company dedicated to educating and empowering men on their fertility journeys.

Doug explains that when couples struggle to conceive for over a year, both partners should be evaluated. Surprisingly, men play a role in 50% of infertility cases, yet many still assume the burden lies with women.

“Unfortunately, that’s how society has painted the picture,” Doug said. “But men are 50% of this equation. We need to start taking accountability and getting involved earlier.”

Doug’s passion for the subject is deeply personal. After months of trying to conceive with his wife, he discovered his sperm count was in the 50th percentile. The cause? Primarily lifestyle-related factors.

With some intentional changes—like reducing alcohol, improving his diet, getting quality sleep, taking targeted supplements, and even changing his underwear—Doug saw his numbers jump to the 70th percentile in just three months.

“Sperm takes about 90 days to mature, so any changes you make today will impact your fertility three months from now,” Doug explained.

These insights inspired him to launch Fertile Fruit, offering men not just advice, but practical tools, including:

  • Fertile Fuel Supplements

  • Fertility-boosting Boxers

  • Education on evidence-based changes

Doug cites a Harvard study that found men who wore loose-fitting boxers had:

  • 33% higher sperm motility

  • 25% greater concentration

  • 17% higher sperm count

To help bring even more credibility and innovation to the space, Fertile Fruit has welcomed Dr. Barry Pearlman, a board-certified OBGYN, to keep tabs on the latest research.

“We’re here to make conception quicker, healthier—and yes, more fun,” Doug said with a smile.

As the conversation closes, Thalia thanks Doug for breaking the stigma and being a voice for men navigating fertility issues.

“This is about helping men understand their bodies and empowering couples to take on this journey together,” Thalia says.

For more information, visit fertilefruit.com.

By: Thalia Hayden

August 21, 2025

Male infertilitysperm count declineFertile FruitDoug MurphyMens reproductive healthFertility supplementsSperm health tipsHarvard sperm studyFertility boxersFertile Fuelthalia haydentalking with thalia
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