What Happens to Your Eggs in the Summer?
Debunking Seasonal Fertility Myths
If you’re trying to conceive, summer might bring up unexpected questions:
Is it too hot to start IVF? Should I worry about chemicals in sunscreen? Is now a good time to begin treatment—or should I wait until fall?
You’re not alone—and we’re here to clear up the confusion. Let's bust some myths and help you feel empowered (and supported) all summer long.
MYTH 1: Heat Damages Your Eggs
When temperatures rise, it's natural to worry—especially with talk of "egg freezing" and how delicate reproductive cells can be. But the good news is: your ovaries are well-insulated and protected inside your body.
It’s actually sperm that are more sensitive to external temperatures.
What to know:
- Prolonged exposure to high heat—like saunas, hot tubs, or sitting with laptops on the lap—can reduce sperm count and motility.
- Women don’t need to worry about outdoor temps harming egg quality.
🔗 Study: Heat & Male Fertility
Pro tip: Avoid hot tubs and tight clothing for men TTC.
MYTH 2: Sunscreen Can Hurt Your Hormones
You may have seen warnings about chemical sunscreens affecting fertility—and there’s some truth to that. Certain ingredients, like oxybenzone, are known endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with hormone balance.
But that doesn’t mean you should skip sun protection altogether.
What to do instead:
✔️ Use mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
✔️ Look for “reef-safe,” “hormone-safe,” or “EWG Verified” labels
✔️ Wear hats, UPF clothing, and stay in the shade during peak UV hours
🔗 EWG's 2024 Guide to Safer Sunscreens
MYTH 3: Summer Is the Worst Time to Start Fertility Treatment
Actually, summer can be a perfect time to begin—or restart—your fertility journey. Here’s why:
✅ Flexible schedules: School’s out, work slows down, and you may have more control over your calendar
✅ Natural mood boost: Sunshine and longer days can help reduce stress and support mental wellness
✅ Fewer stressors: Many people feel more grounded and in tune with their body during summer routines
Whether you’re prepping for IVF, starting IUI, or exploring testing, summer offers space for reflection and momentum.
Do Summer Habits Help or Hurt?
Here’s how to make your summer fertility-friendly:
✔️ Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate – Dehydration can affect cervical mucus, hormone regulation, and energy
✔️ Prioritize sleep – Long days and late nights can throw off your rhythm. Stick to a consistent bedtime
✔️ Eat seasonal, nutrient-rich foods – Think watermelon, berries, leafy greens, avocado, and grilled lean proteins
✔️ Take your supplements – Especially folate, vitamin D, and omega-3s
✔️ Move regularly – Gentle movement like walking, swimming, or fertility-friendly yoga can support blood flow and reduce stress
What to avoid (in excess):
- Alcohol
- Processed sugars
- High-heat environments (especially for men)
- Overbooking your calendar (stress is a fertility disruptor)
Aspire Fertility Is Here Year-Round
Whether it’s 100° outside or the middle of a holiday weekend, our clinics are here for you. Our board-certified specialists, nurses, embryologists, and care teams understand that fertility is not seasonal—it’s personal.
If you're thinking about starting fertility care or just want more answers, we’ll meet you where you are with clarity, compassion, and expert guidance.
👉 Schedule your consult and take the first step toward a summer that supports your journey.
