Preconception Care for Male Partners

Male Fertility

In up to 50% of cases, infertility issues stem from the male, and the quality of human semen has declined by 50–60% over the last 40 years due to a variety of factors.

Addressing the male partner is important when it comes to preconception care - it takes two to tango. Sperm is a reflection of overall male health and is impacted by hormonal status, heavy metal exposure, stress, immune function, diet and exercise, weight, smoking and drug use.

Important nutrients for male fertility include:

• Zinc - plays an important role in sperm physiological function, and low zinc levels in seminal plasma are associated with reduced sperm quality.
• Vitamin C - low semen vitamin C concentrations are directly linked to decreased normal sperm morphology and increased sperm DNA damage.
• CoQ10 - has been shown to increase sperm concentration, motility and morphology.
• Selenium - is essential for healthy spermatogenesis.
• Vitamin D - plays an important role in male fertility, and serum vitamin D levels are positively associated with semen quality.
• Omega 3 - DHA supplementation may improve sperm motility.