The female is often the focus when couples begin to explore their plans for having a baby. However, this should not be the case because almost 50% of infertility is attributed to the male partner. The male partners alone account for one third of infertility problems. Additionally, another one-third of infertility is attributed to a combination of problems with both partners.
As reported by the Organization of Teratology Information Services (OTIS), “Agents that may cause birth defects do not reach the developing fetus through the father as they do from the pregnant mother.” There are things that may cause problems with fertility and may also increase the chances of some birth defects.
The best thing you can do for your fertility efforts is to make sure you or he is in the healthiest shape possible.
Quick Tips for Preconception Health for Men:
Get a health care check up – there should be no reason to suspect that you are experiencing an infertility concern, but it is nice to check things off and confirm that you appear to be in good health.
Caution with taken any medications – It is important to consult your health care provider, but it is recommended to avoid taking as many medications as possible. There are medications that affect male fertility:
· Tagamet (cimetidine), sulfasalazine, or nitrofurantoin are used to treat ulcers, gastrointestinal problems, and urinary tract infections. These medications may impact sperm production and sperm count.
· Steroids, such as prednisone and cortisone, which are used to treat asthma, arthritis and skin conditions, impact male fertility.
· Chemotherapy and radiation could cause sterility or a significant change in sperm quality and quantity.
Check your exposure to the world – exposure to pesticides, chemical fertilizers, nickel, chromium, ethylene glycol, lead, petrochemicals, and radiation may affect your sperm. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health reports that exposure to these agents and chemicals may change the quality of your sperm and lower the quantity making conception more challenging and possible leading to miscarriage.
Good Nutrition and Rest – The food that you eat and your sleeping habits can make a difference in your health. Your overall health is related to your fertility health. Zinc is one of the nutrients that has been identified by research to actually increase your fertility. You may eat the following foods which are higher in levels of zinc: wholegrain cereals, seafood, meat and eggs. Another nutrient that is known to affect fertility is Selenium, which may be found in meat, seafood, mushrooms, cereals, and Brazil nuts. Finally, vitamin E and rest are also recommended to help maximize fertility.
Don’t consume alcohol, tobacco or other illicit drugs – alcohol may reduce zinc levels and some illicit drugs may lessen sperm quality. Although not conclusive, there are studies suggesting that tobacco may be related to some heart defects.
Prevent over heating your testicles – when your testicles become to hot this may lower your sperm quantity. Heat that has potential to raise the temperature levels of your testicles comes from hot tubs, saunas, long hot showers, electric blankets and heating pads. There are some that suggest that even tight clothing like briefs and spandex may lead to an increase in testicle temperatures. The simple recommendation is to wear loose clothing and avoid hot tubs etc.
Avoid or minimize riding bikes – There are some health care providers who believe that the friction and jostling from riding may also increase the temperature of your testicles.
Take a multivitamin – you will invest in your overall health, which is related to your fertility health. Some vitamins may be accompanied with fertility supplements.
Take a home fertility test – this can be done in the privacy of your own home and the results can either give you peace of mind or alert you to the need to talk to your health care provider.
Enjoy sex and be romantic – the journey to try and conceive does not need to be dull and stale. Your relationship is more than the objective of conception – make each other a priority.