Increase your chances of conceiving with a better lifestyle

Infertility can have many causes, and many couples are currently struggling with unsuccessful attempts to start a family. Decreased fertility is not caused by genetic predispositions or various types of diseases or disorders alone. Lifestyle also plays a large role. So how do you improve your lifestyle for better fertility?

Restrict your alcohol and coffee intake, and forget about cigarettes

If you occasionally have a glass of wine with your partner in the evening or drink a small beer with Sunday lunch, it will most likely not affect conception. However, even only moderate or excessive alcohol consumption significantly reduces the chances of conceiving. Both men and women should keep an eye on their alcohol consumption.

Increased amounts of alcohol in men reduce testosterone production, which is one of the main factors in producing healthy sperm. Low levels of this hormone result in problems with the formation of sperm, their deformation, or lower numbers, and can lead to impotence.

In women, increased alcohol consumption causes disorders of the menstrual cycle, and especially ovulation. Irregular menstruation makes it harder to determine when the window is, reducing the chance of conceiving. Abstinence is an important factor in increasing a woman's fertility.

Also, the consumption of large amounts of caffeine (about 500 mg per day) can be a barrier to happy parenthood. To support fertility in both women and men, it is recommended to limit caffeine intake to the recommended dose of 200-250 mg per day, which corresponds to about two cups.

Smoking is harmful to one’s health in general and also reduces the chances of conceiving. In men, smoking can result in reduced sperm production, and even damage to the DNA. In women, smoking causes poor functioning of the fallopian tubes, and thus complications in successful conception.

Alcohol, coffee and cigarettes should be eliminated at least three months before conception. This is especially true for men, as sperm require this length of time before they are fully developed.

Stay mobile to stay healthy, but in moderation

A reasonable amount of exercise and sport is a reliable factor in promoting fertility. This is particularly true as the correct weight in both women and men affects the proper production of the hormones that control ovulation and sperm production. Conversely, excessive exercise can be detrimental rather than beneficial, especially in women. The body protects itself and eliminates bodily processes that it does not need or that burden it at the appropriate moment. In some cases, great physical exertion leads to the suppression of ovulation.

Unhealthy environment and habits

The modern world brings with it many things that make life easier, but can also be dangerous. Every day, people encounter a variety of chemicals, pesticides, organic solvents, and other substances that can affect fertility. These substances are not only in the environment but are also used in households and are found in food. If you are trying to conceive, pay close attention to the toxins in your environment.

The same applies to technology as to harmful substances. It is scientifically proven that watching television or looking at monitor or phone screens has a negative effect on sleep quality. And good sleep quality is vital for successful conception. In men, technology can also have a negative impact on sperm quality. Fertility in men is affected by high temperatures, and, say, a laptop on your lap or a mobile phone in your pocket can cause testicular overheating and poor sperm production. 

*This article is translated from Czech original to English language by translation agency Marvel, s. r. o.