Couples aspiring to start a family can enhance their chances of a healthy pregnancy by actively involving both partners in the conception planning process, as a man’s lifestyle can play a vital role in their reproductive health. In this blog, we’ll explore the lifestyle changes that can assist with sperm health, and the services offered by InSEM Fertility Solutions, which is our dedicated insemination clinic located in Newstead, Brisbane.
What affects sperm health?
Recognising the importance of controlling the controllable in sperm health, let’s delve into lifestyle changes that can affect sperm health.
Men looking to enhance their fertility can focus on various lifestyle factors that contribute to sperm health. It is important to note that lifestyle changes may take approximately two to three months to result in improved sperm quality due to the lifecycle of sperm. Here are some lifestyle changes to consider:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for your weight to fall within the healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) range of 20 to 25. Both being overweight and underweight can negatively affect sperm quality, concentration, and motility. The production of sperm is also influenced by diet and exercise. It is advisable to maintain a well-balanced, healthy diet with ample lean proteins, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Quit Smoking: Smoking has detrimental effects on sperm, reducing concentration, and motility, and causing DNA fragmentation. Quitting smoking is a crucial step in boosting fertility.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Consider moderating alcohol intake at least three months before conception. Heavy drinking can lower sperm quality, and testosterone production, and may even lead to erectile dysfunction, affecting overall reproductive health.
Limit Caffeine Consumption: Limiting your daily coffee intake to one or two cups is recommended as caffeine has been shown to affect sperm motility and quality.
Avoid Recreational Substances: Avoid consuming any recreational substances as they are known to affect testosterone levels and sperm movement. Eliminating these substances is vital for optimal sperm health.
Keep Them Cool: Sperm quality can be affected by overheating of the tests as the testes are located outside of the body to maintain a cooler temperature. It is advisable to avoid hot spas, saunas, tight jeans, and even using your computer on your lap to prevent negative effects.
Ejaculate Frequently: Infrequent ejaculation can lead to sluggish sperm with a higher likelihood of DNA damage. For optimal results, we recommend you aim to ejaculate every two days, particularly during your partner’s ovulation period.
Review Prescription Medications: Consult with a healthcare professional to assess the effect of prescription medications on your fertility. Some common drugs, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatories, may affect sperm production.
Manage Stress: Excess levels of stress can lead to unhealthy behaviours affecting fertility. Prioritise activities that promote relaxation, such as walking, reading, and engaging in hobbies, to support overall well-being.
As men play a crucial role in the journey towards a healthy pregnancy, taking proactive steps to optimise your sperm health is essential. InSEM’s fertility services provide couples with affordable options for overcoming fertility challenges. By incorporating positive lifestyle changes and seeking professional guidance, couples can increase their chances of conception and embark on the exciting path to parenthood.
Understanding the Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Process:
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is an accessible and affordable fertility treatment option that uses specially prepared sperm to maximise the chances of conception. The IUI process involves a series of steps designed to enhance the chances of successful fertilisation.
To begin, the sperm undergoes a washing process, which separates the viable sperm and eliminates any non-viable sperm from the sample. This ensures that only the best sperm are used during the IUI procedure, maximising the quality and concentration of the sperm cells. Once the sperm sample is prepared, the female is requested to get into a position similar to a pelvic exam. The prepared sperm sample is placed directly into the uterine cavity with the use of a specialised IUI catheter. This aims to increase the likelihood of the sperm reaching a mature egg to achieve fertilisation.
The procedure only takes a few minutes and is considered pain-free. Some women may feel slight discomfort during the procedure. Following the IUI procedure, you will be advised to recline for approximately 20 minutes.
For optimal results, the IUI procedure is completed around the time of ovulation, when fertility is at its peak. Ovulation kits are used to pinpoint the ideal timing for the procedure, ensuring the highest chances of success.
Note this is an outline of the in-clinic insemination process. At InSEM, you have the option to have the insemination procedure performed by our experienced team at our clinic. You can also choose to do it in the comfort and privacy of your own home with our InSEM kit.
If you are ready to take the next step, contact us to explore the fertility solutions we offer.
Book your FREE initial fertility nurse consultation!
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and the chance for success with IUI varies with each patient’s unique circumstances.