Hot baths - whether in the bathtub or in a Jacuzzi - are always nice and relaxing. A recent study on hot baths have shown that it may affect a guy's fertility as men who avoid them seem to be more fertile. (*gasp*)

A team from the University of California conducted a three year pilot study on male fertility and found that staying in a hot bath or Jacuzzi may also have an influence. The study was done to a group of men and exposed to "wet heat". They were immersed in a tub with water warmer that normal body heat for 30 minutes or more per week for three months. After which, they stopped the "wet heat" exercise and avoided hot tubs all together.

Three to six months later, their sperm count and motility (the swimming ability of the sperm) increased dramatically. The participants' sperm count increased by 491% while motility raised by 34% as five of the 11 men had positive results. Tobacco was also seen as a factor that negatively affects fertility as six men who didn't have any improvements in fertility were smokers.

According to Dr. Paul Turek, leader of the research team, "It has been believed for decades that wet heat exposure is bad for fertility, as an old wives' tale, but this effect has rarely been documented. We now have actual evidence to show patients that these recreational activities are a real risk factor for male infertility."

It is known that sperm like cool surroundings - which explains their perfect positioning in the male anatomy. So, looks like those guys who want to have mini-me's would have to avoid the tub, or at least turn down the heat. Just remember: it's also not advised to quit taking baths entirely as that is also known to deter procreation.