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Fertility Tips for Both Partners

Team AckoFeb 8, 2024

Now that you and your partner have started thinking about starting a family, you need to plan ahead. Once you start trying for a baby, you won't know if you're pregnant for the first few weeks. So, making these changes sooner than later will benefit you once you get pregnant.

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Remember that your and your partner’s health before pregnancy will affect the lifelong health of your child. By following certain guidelines, you can improve your fertility, protect your baby’s future health, and also reduce the risk of problems during your pregnancy.

There are a number of things you can do now before you conceive, that will affect your fertility and the health of your baby. Keep reading for our top fertility tips for both you and your partner!

Fertility tips for Women:

Eat healthy

Your chances of conception as well as the health of your baby depend greatly on your pre-pregnancy diet.  Make sure you eat foods from each of the five food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. Avoid sugary and fatty foods, and make sure you're getting enough fluids.

Maintain a healthy weight

It is imperative to stay at a healthy weight when you’re trying to conceive. Studies have shown that being either underweight or overweight can have a harmful effect on foetal health.

Being overweight or underweight can cause you to have irregular or missed periods. Obesity increases the risk of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, birth defects and the need for a c-section.

Get moderate exercise

Being physically active before your pregnancy has several benefits. The fitter you are, the easier your pregnancy and delivery will be. Just be sure not to overdo it. Right before you conceive is not the time to be doing heavy training. If you're just beginning a workout program, do not push yourself too hard. Discuss your physical activity with your doctor.

Make sure to relax

Stress can negatively impact fertility, pregnancy, and your baby's health. Studies have shown that pregnancy is more likely to occur during months when couples feel good and relaxed, and less likely during months when they feel tense or depressed. Taking time for yourself every day, exercising, meditating, getting massages, connecting with your partner, and getting enough sleep are various ways you can reduce stress.

Get your required dose of folic acid

Doctors recommend increasing your folic acid intake three months before trying to have a baby, as it can help prevent birth defects in a baby's head and spine. Ideally, you should be getting 400 milligrams of folic acid every day as well as eating high-folate foods. Some good food sources for folic acid are leafy vegetables, beans, whole grains, and citrus fruits. Your doctor will also most likely prescribe a supplement to meet your daily intake.

Fertility tips for Men:

Cut down on smoking

Smoking has been specifically shown to affect fertility in men. Men who smoke have been found to have reduced sperm counts, and imperfectly formed sperm.

No alcohol

If you are planning a pregnancy, you need to cut down on drinking. Research has shown that heavy alcohol consumption may reduce testosterone levels, impair semen quality, and cause erectile dysfunction.

Reduce caffeine consumption

It is advisable to keep your caffeine intake levels low when you and your partner are planning to start a family. Keep in mind that it's not just coffee – chocolate, sodas, energy drinks, and some cold and pain medications also have caffeine.

Avoid overheating in your groin area

High temperatures in your groin area, and especially around your scrotum, may hamper sperm production. It is highly recommended that you limit your time in hot tubs and saunas. Additionally, avoid tight-fitting pants and placing your laptop computer directly on your lap during use.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

 

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