When planning a pregnancy, the health of both partners is important. Healthy habits can lead to a healthy sperm count and quality.
Male partners can take the following preconception health steps:
- Quit smoking and drug use. Those who smoke and use drugs are more likely to have low sperm counts.
- Limit alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking can have a negative impact on sperm quality. If you choose to drink, do it in moderation, which typically means no more than 2 drinks per day.
- Eat a balanced diet and get regular exercise. These practices contribute to a healthy weight, which can help with a healthy sperm quality. Refer to MyPlate for information on a balanced diet.
- Get tested for sexually transmitted infections. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) don’t always have symptoms, so the only way to know for sure if you have one is to get tested. Talk to a medical provider about getting tested, and if needed, you can get the treatment you need.
- Work with your medical provider to get chronic conditions under control. This includes things like high blood pressure, diabetes, or asthma.
- Do a mental health check. Mental health is closely related to physical health. You deserve to feel your best. If you have mental health concerns, reach out to a medical provider or mental health professional for help.