6 Ways For Dad To Prep For Pregnancy

Written by Jana Angeles

Have you had the baby talk? Are you ready to take on the responsibility of being parents? That’s great news if you’ve said yes to both! Being ready to conceive is an exciting part for couples and it’s really important that we as parents look after our health too. Not only is mum’s health important when it comes to conceiving but dad’s health is just as important too!

Even though we don’t think about how our lifestyle affects the process of conceiving, it’s beneficial to start making those changes now rather than later. Preparing dads for pregnancy is a big step for them, especially when they have to cut down on things they enjoy the most. In the end, the sacrifice is all worth it when you finally get to hold that bundle of joy in your arms.

There are 6 crucial ways to ensure that dads are ready for pregnancy. Implementing these lifestyle changes will make all the difference if followed appropriately.

Avoid toxins

Dads who work with certain chemicals on a daily basis such as pesticides, chemical fertilisers, lead, nickel, mercury, chromium and benzene can be detrimental to their fertility. Be sure to wear protective clothing and a face mask if you do handle these toxins on a daily basis.
Be familiar with your environment and see if there’s anything that could be impacting your sperm’s health. It’s also a good thing to keep an eye out on what food you consume on a daily basis. Wash fruits and vegetables before consumption.

Go to the doctor

Schedule an appointment with your local doctor and tell them that you’re ready to have a baby with your partner. Even if it means waiting around in those long queues, it’s worth talking to your doctor about your plans of having a baby. They will be able to assess your lifestyle and implement any necessary changes that need to be made.
If you’re someone that works 9-5 and haven’t had time to get adequate exercise in you, now’s the time. If you’ve been buying too much take out food, save your money and cook healthy, home-cooked meals. Staying up late and binge-watching your favourite TV show? It’s time to cut back and get some sleep!
If you’re taking any medications, your doctor will review them and see if they’re affecting your health in some way.

Take a break from technology

Experts believe that the electromagnetic radiation from wireless communication (smartphones etc) can decline the reproductive health of males. It’s also been mentioned that laptops (when hot) can terribly affect semen.
It’s important that dads take time off from Wi-Fi technologies such as your laptop and smartphone. Leave them outside the bedroom because it’ll help you fall asleep even better!

Adapt an appropriate exercise routine

For a successful conception and a healthy pregnancy, dads need to make sure their mental and physical health are in tip-top shape.
It’s important that dads avoid anything that makes them feel stressed, they’re at a healthy weight and are getting adequate amounts of exercise.
Adapting an appropriate exercise routine can enable you to sleep better and will help you stress less from everyday living.
If you have a busy lifestyle, having 2 x 15-minute workouts a week can be beneficial to your health.
If you catch the bus to work, get off one stop early so you can have a bit of a walk before you clock in. This will get your blood pumping and it’s a good excuse to get some physical activity for your body.

Limit alcohol intake and avoid drugs

Taking alcohol and drugs can really affect the levels of zinc in your body. Furthermore, this can reduce sperm production and cause sperm abnormalities.
If you’re a dad-to-be it’s important to limit your alcohol intake and stay hydrated in-between drinks.
Alcohol consumption can affect conception; it’ll be harder to get your partner pregnant earlier if alcohol is in the equation.
If you’re taking any medicinal drugs for health purposes, always check with your doctor to see if they are safe to take while trying to conceive.

You are what you eat – make changes to your diet if necessary

It’s common sense to look after your health but it’s even more necessary for dads-to-be to take extra precaution when eating. The food that you eat determines the health of your sperm and the chances of fertility.
Seek the advice from a dietician to know which foods are nutritious and wholesome and have them come up with an eating plan for you.
Foods with high zinc levels such as meat, seafood and eggs can increase your chance of fertility.
Sunflower seeds or almonds have been known to produce stronger semen quality due to their high levels of Vitamin A.

Although these tips aren’t absolute guarantees, this will surely have a great impact to when you and your partner decide to conceive. For dads, your health matters too! Just because you won’t be carrying the baby doesn’t mean you don’t play a huge part in the pregnancy journey.