‘More responsibility’: Fertility expert’s urgent warning to men

Blokes thinking about trying for a baby with their partner need to read this advice from a fertility expert first to “improve their chances”.

Fertility experts are warning that age and lifestyle choices are jeopardising Australian men’s chances of becoming fathers.

Male infertility accounts for one-third of fertility issues, yet many men don’t adjust their habits ahead of conception.

With the median age of Australian fathers now at 33.8 (compared to 29 years in 1977), there is an even greater need for men to transform their habits before trying to conceive.

Emma Ebinger, National Scientific Director at Adora Fertility, says that it’s time to reframe fertility as a shared responsibility, not just a women’s issue.

“I think men sometimes don’t stop to give enough thought about their role and what they could be doing to improve their chances of success,” she tells news.com.au.

She notes that it can take around two and a half months for sperm to form in the body, and during that time, their quality can be influenced by factors such as smoking, drugs, diet, and alcohol.

A fertility expert has shared a warning about male fertility. Picture: iStock

Vaping may also impair fertility – just as much as cigarettes can – with studies linking e-cigarettes to reduced sperm count, motility, and DNA integrity.

“All of these lifestyle and environmental effects are known as epigenetics as they can impact the sperm’s DNA,” she says.

“The sperm contributes 50 per cent of the DNA to the developing foetus, which is the biological blueprint of the developing baby.”

She advises men to also be aware of “endocrine-disrupting chemicals” – found in plastics, solvents, paints, cosmetics, and textiles – which can negatively affect fertility by impacting hormones responsible for sperm production.

Emma Ebinger, National Scientific Director at Adora Fertility says men often don’t consider their role in the fertility journey. Picture: Supplied

“It can be really hard to avoid these chemicals completely, but minimising the use of plastics in your daily life, such as not reheating food in takeaway containers or drinking from disposable water bottles, is advisable,” Ms Ebinger notes.

Additionally, Ms Ebinger suggests limiting activities that excessively raise their surrounding temperature, such as very hot baths, spas, and sauna sessions.

This is because male testicles are located outside the body as they require slightly cooler conditions for sperm production than body temperature.

Sperm quality can be influenced by factors such as smoking, drugs, diet, vaping and alcohol. Picture: iStock

So, what can men do to enhance their fertility?

Ms Ebinger emphasises that it is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but overall lifestyle changes are encouraged to ensure that a couple is in the best physical shape possible before having a baby.

Cutting back on alcohol, avoiding smoking and recreational drugs, consuming whole foods, and engaging in regular exercise are all important components of the puzzle.

Regarding when men should begin making these lifestyle changes prior to attempting conception, she says three months beforehand is a good guideline.

“It’s a great time for them to have an overall health check-up with their GP as well and address any ongoing health concerns they may have,” she adds.

“There is some scientific evidence that taking antioxidant supplements may also help in ensuring the sperm is as healthy as possible, but these should be taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle.”

Men should aim to get their lifestyle in check at least three months prior to conception. Picture: iStock

Karlee and Jason Sondergeld, from Townsville, struggled with infertility for two years before welcoming a baby via IVF in December 2023.

The couple, both 30, were deeply committed to making positive lifestyle changes on their journey to conceive.

“We wanted to give ourselves the best possible chance to start a family,” they said.

“We started looking into the role that male fertility plays in conception, and we changed our diet, reducing stress, getting quality sleep, cutting back on alcohol, taking a good quality male fertility supplement, and just being more mindful of our overall health, which meant we had a lot more energy and a clearer headspace.”

Karlee and Jason Sondergeld focused on improving their lifestyle to help their fertility. Picture: Supplied

Leaning on each other for support was crucial during the oftentimes emotional process.

“For me as a male partner, I think there can be a feeling of helplessness, especially during the parts where most of the physical burden is on your partner,” Mr Sondergeld explained.

“But I tried my hardest to stay really involved, which helped me feel connected and supportive.”

They welcomed their baby Rylan in December 2023. Picture: Supplied

Following the birth of their baby Rylan, they credited the small changes they made that helped with fertility.

“Even if you’re just starting to consider IVF or fertility support, taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle together can make a huge difference, both physically and mentally,” they advised.

“Be kind to yourselves and remember you’re not failing, you’re just taking a different path to parenthood. And the path is valid, still powerful, and still full of a lot of love.”

Originally published as ‘More responsibility’: Fertility expert’s urgent warning to men