Preconception Care: Why Male Health Matters Just as Much as Female Health

Preconception care involves both partners improving their diet, addressing unhealthy lifestyle habits and taking nutritional supplements. These steps help support a healthy pregnancy and optimise the long-term health of their baby.

When couples begin planning for a baby, the first professional they usually speak with is their GP. However, research shows that men rarely receive any guidance about their reproductive health during these early consultations. In fact, 90% of Australian GPs reported lacking confidence in their knowledge of modifiable factors that influence male reproductive health.

This is concerning when we recognise that sperm contributes half of the genetic material that forms a baby. The health of the sperm profoundly affects the embryo’s development and contributes to outcomes for future generations.

Why Male Preconception Health Cannot Be Overlooked

The positive news is that men have enormous potential to improve their sperm health, and the changes they make can significantly influence pregnancy success.

Yet men often receive little support, guidance or education. As a result, many do not realise that factors such as diet, lifestyle habits and toxin exposure directly impact the quality, shape and movement of their sperm.

Men need:

• Practical, structured dietary advice
• Support to implement long-term lifestyle changes
• Clear, evidence-based information
• Healthcare professionals who take male reproductive health seriously

Without this, the burden of preconception care falls overwhelmingly on women, despite both partners contributing equally to a baby’s genetic starting point.

The Societal Gap: Male Reproductive Health Is Still Treated as Secondary

One of the most significant barriers to improving sperm health is the way society frames reproductive health. Many still view it as a “female issue,” meaning men are less likely to seek care, ask questions or access helpful resources.

The research identified several barriers GPs face when discussing male preconception care:

• Lack of knowledge
• Sensitivity of the subject
• The persistent belief that reproductive issues are “women’s problems”

This mindset needs to shift if we are to improve outcomes for couples and for future generations.

Supporting Men to Make Healthy Changes

Conversations about men’s reproductive health need to become more common. Normalising these discussions helps men feel supported when making healthier decisions, especially in social situations where they may feel pressured to drink alcohol, smoke or eat poorly.

Small acts of support can make a noticeable difference:

• Encouraging healthier choices at social events
• Supporting men who reduce alcohol or avoid smoking
• Talking openly about reproductive health
• Sharing trustworthy resources and evidence-based information

These actions help men feel empowered rather than isolated when trying to improve their health.

Who Can Provide Reliable Support?

GPs have expressed a need for more high-quality resources; websites, factsheets and guidance, to better support male preconception care.

In the meantime, evidence-based practitioners such as naturopaths, nutritionists and acupuncturists (particularly those specialising in reproductive health) offer valuable, up-to-date support for couples preparing for pregnancy. These practitioners can provide:

• Clear, evidence-based recommendations
• Targeted dietary and lifestyle guidance
• Individualised supplement advice
• A holistic, structured preconception plan for both partners

Final Thoughts

Male preconception health is often overlooked, yet sperm contributes half of a baby’s genetic foundation. With the right support, guidance and lifestyle changes, men can make a significant difference to pregnancy outcomes and the long-term health of their future child.