Pre-conception Checklist for Men

There are many things you can do to boost your chance of conceiving a healthy baby. It takes about three months to make new sperm, so experts recommend making changes at least three months before conception. Here’s a list of proven ways to improve your sperm.

Manage your weight
Exercise regularly and eat well
Get into a good exercise routine
Eat well
Cut out smoking, limit alcohol and avoid recreational drugs
Reduce exposure to harmful chemicals in the home and workplace
Keep your testes cool
Manage health conditions
Don’t leave it too late
Book a pre-conception health check with your GP

Manage your weight

Aim to be in the healthy weight range to increase your chance of a healthy baby. Being overweight can reduce sperm quality and your chance of conceiving.

Exercise regularly and eat well

Regular physical activity and eating well improves sperm health and reduces the risk of conditions like diabetes. The Mediterranean diet is a great example of a well-balanced diet. Try for 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity, such as brisk walking or jogging, every day.

Cut out smoking, limit alcohol and avoid recreational drugs

Smoking, heavy drinking, and drugs such as anabolic steroids, can cause fertility problems, damage sperm, and affect the health of your future baby.

Reduce exposure to harmful chemicals in the home and workplace

Some chemicals can affect reproductive health and reduce the chance of conceiving.

For a list of chemicals to avoid check out www.yourfertility.org.au

Keep your testes cool

Saunas and tight underwear can increase the temperature in your testicles and reduce the quality of your sperm. Avoid spas, saunas and hot baths. Wearing boxer shorts may also help keep things cool down there.

Manage health conditions

Some medical conditions affect fertility such as diabetes and sexually transmitted infections. Get advice from your doctor about medical conditions and any medications you are currently taking.

Don’t leave it too late

Don’t leave it too late. Men younger than 40 have a better chance of having a child than older men. While age can’t be controlled, if you want to become a father, sooner is better than later.