Many couples who are planning to have a baby want to have a healthy and intelligent child. It is well known that the quality of the fertilized egg plays a crucial role in determining the quality of the baby. So besides the mother actively preparing for pregnancy, what preparations should the father make before conception?
Early treatment of male reproductive diseases
In the process of sperm production and ejaculation in males, it can be metaphorically described as follows: the testicles are the "factory" for producing sperm, the epididymis is the "warehouse" for storing sperm, the vas deferens is the "transportation hub," the spermatic artery and vein are the "transportation lines" for logistical supply, and the prostatic fluid is the necessary "solvent" for transporting sperm. It can be seen that any problem in any link can affect the quality and motility of sperm: sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis and gonorrhea can affect the production, development, and motility of sperm, while diseases such as prostatitis, varicocele, and tuberculosis can cause infertility. If the prospective father has reproductive organ inflammation, premature ejaculation, sexually transmitted diseases, etc., early treatment is necessary.
Quit smoking and drinking
Smoking, excessive drinking, and drug abuse can lower the quality of sperm. Excessive drinking can cause changes in the shape and motility of sperm, and even kill sperm, thus affecting conception and embryo development, resulting in an increased risk of intellectual disabilities and birth defects. Data shows that the probability of producing deformed and intellectually impaired babies is high when the father is intoxicated. In the West, there is the concept of "Sunday babies," which refers to children conceived and born on weekends. These children are often intellectually impaired and physically weak. The reason behind this is that during weekends, couples often indulge in heavy drinking, leading to conception while intoxicated. Since the lifespan of sperm is about 2 months, prospective fathers should quit smoking and drinking at least 2-3 months before conception.
Avoid harmful substances
Many chemical and biological factors can cause sperm deformities or chromosomal abnormalities. Various paints, formaldehyde, pesticides, certain detergents, herbicides, anesthetics, etc., can cause fetal abnormalities. Therefore, prospective fathers planning to have a baby should stay away from these substances within a year and postpone any plans for home renovation.
Reduce radiation exposure
It has been confirmed that radiation can increase the rate of sperm deformities and decrease sperm count and density. There are many sources of radiation in daily life, such as microwave ovens, computers, televisions, air conditioners, mobile phones, etc. Therefore, men should try to minimize their exposure to radiation. Avoid placing mobile phones near the waist or in trouser pockets, do not place computers in the bedroom, replace office computers with LCD screens, avoid using electric blankets, and avoid X-ray exposure in the near future.
In addition, men should eat more foods high in zinc before conception because zinc directly participates in the production and motility of sperm. Foods like oysters, beef, millet, peanuts, legumes, and radishes are high in zinc, and seafood is also a good choice as it not only contains high levels of zinc but also enhances male sexual function.
It is also important to control the temperature around the testicles and avoid excessive heat as it is not conducive to the growth and vitality of sperm. Try to avoid activities like long-distance cycling, wearing tight jeans, sauna baths, and steam baths.
