A proactive approach to reproductive health starts here.
While male fertility isn’t always a top health concern for men, it should be—especially as sperm health is closely linked not only to the ability to conceive but also to overall well-being. Many of the same lifestyle and medical factors that affect general health also influence fertility, making routine check-ins and preventative care essential.
Here’s a fertility-focused men’s health checklist to help you take control of your reproductive future.
- Get a Semen Analysis
A semen analysis is the cornerstone of male fertility testing. It evaluates key sperm parameters including:
- Concentration (sperm count)
- Motility (movement)
- Morphology (shape)
- Volume and pH
- White blood cells or abnormal cells
A normal sperm concentration is 15 million/mL or more, based on World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. If results fall outside the normal range, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing.
- Check Hormone Levels
Hormones like testosterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), and prolactin play a critical role in sperm production. Abnormal hormone levels may signal underlying issues with the testes or pituitary gland that affect fertility.
- Maintain a Healthy BMI
Men with a BMI over 30 are more likely to experience lower testosterone levels, impaired sperm parameters, and decreased libido. Obesity is also linked to increased DNA fragmentation in sperm, which can impact embryo development and pregnancy outcomes.
- Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Tobacco and excessive alcohol intake have both been associated with lower sperm count, motility, and abnormal morphology. Smoking also increases oxidative stress, which can damage sperm DNA.
- Reduce Heat and Radiation Exposure
Frequent use of hot tubs, saunas, laptops on laps, or exposure to radiation (like prolonged cellphone storage near the groin) can raise testicular temperature and impair sperm production.
- Avoid Environmental Toxins
Pesticides, industrial chemicals, and endocrine-disrupting compounds like BPA (found in some plastics) have been shown to negatively affect male fertility.
- Get Screened for STIs
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause inflammation or blockages in the reproductive tract, leading to fertility issues if left untreated.
- Evaluate Mental Health
Stress, anxiety, and depression are not only harmful to mental health but can also disrupt hormonal balance and sexual function. Chronic stress may impact sperm quality and libido.
- Schedule an Annual Physical
Regular checkups help detect health conditions that could affect fertility, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum that impair sperm production). A primary care provider or urologist can help track reproductive health over time.
- Consider At-Home Fertility Testing
If you’re not ready to visit a clinic, FDA-cleared at-home semen testing kits like YO Home Sperm Test allow men to test motile sperm concentration from the comfort of home. These can be a useful first step before seeking a full clinical workup.
Takeaways
Fertility is not a given—and it’s not just a female concern. By following this men’s health checklist and addressing factors that impact sperm quality and reproductive function, men can proactively protect both their fertility and long-term health. Whether you’re planning for parenthood now or in the future, these steps help ensure you’re ready when the time comes.
