The phenomenon of infertility is currently estimated at about 15% of the population, which gives about 1 million couples facing this problem in Poland. Infertility is understood as the inability to get pregnant and is diagnosed after one year of regular intercourse without the use of contraceptives. In 40% to 60% of infertility cases, it is believed that the reason for the inability to initiate a pregnancy lies with the male factor, suggesting a decline in semen quality. As global reports show - this problem, is not only a Polish affliction, because worldwide, between 1938 and 1990, the concentration of spermatozoa decreased from 113 mnl/ ml to 66 mnl/ ml. The recorded decrease, almost by half, may have its causes in external factors. This includes the effects of stress in its many forms - both mild and severe stress is a cause of decreased testosterone levels in men, which impairs spermatogenesis. Furthermore, the negative effects of occupational stress are also observed. Furthermore, factors negatively affecting fertility include abnormal thermoregulation of the testes. This is mainly fostered by the working environment, but also by a sedentary lifestyle, the use of saunas or overuse of hot baths. Further elements of our lifestyle that contribute to overheating in the scrotal area include holding electronic equipment - such as a laptop computer - on our lap.

Between 2003 and 2013, semen samples from patients of the Family Health Centre in Lublin were analysed. The study that was carried out was retrospective and included samples taken from 4235 men who had been treated for infertility. In the course of the research procedures, results were obtained which showed a decrease in sperm counts in particular age groups: 18 - 29 years (decrease from 42.31 million/ml in 2003 to 23.80 in 2013), 30 - 40 years (decrease from 47.05 million/ml in 2003 to 24.17 million/ml in 2013).

Recent years indicate a significant need for the development of techniques to assist couples in their efforts to have a child. Declining semen quality is one of the most significant problems that represents an obstacle to having offspring. The most significant problems in this regard are the decline in semen parameters such as sperm concentration, motility, and sperm morphology. The decline in these values is so great that the World Health Organisation has updated the reference standards for normal values of the above parameters.

The phenomenon of falling semen quality has been the subject of much scientific discussion and research work. It is now becoming extremely important to find the cause of this unfavourable trend so that action can be taken to stop and reverse it. [1]