This Movember, Let’s Talk About Men’s Health and Fertility

Each November, Movember encourages men to grow moustaches to raise awareness about men’s health. The movement often focuses on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health, but there’s another part of men’s health that deserves just as much attention, male fertility.

Male fertility is a key factor in almost half of all fertility challenges faced by couples. Yet it’s still not talked about as openly as it should be. This Movember, it’s time to bring fertility into the conversation, helping men understand how their overall health, habits, and lifestyle play a direct role in reproductive wellbeing.

The Connection Between Men’s Health and Fertility

Good health is vital for fertility. The body’s ability to produce healthy sperm depends on how well it functions overall. Hormones, diet, exercise, and even stress levels may influence sperm count, quality, and motility.

When a man is in good general health, sperm are more likely to be of higher quality and greater number. However, poor health, including conditions like obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure, can affect hormone balance and may damage sperm production.

Research has shown that sperm health reflects a man’s broader wellbeing. Men with chronic health issues or poor lifestyle habits may  experience reduced fertility. That’s why Movember’s message of taking men’s health seriously applies not just to cancer screening or mental health, but also to reproductive health.

Common Lifestyle Factors That Affect Male Fertility

Lifestyle plays a major role in sperm health. Everyday habits can either support or damage fertility, and understanding these links can help men take better control of their reproductive health.

1. Smoking

Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body, including the reproductive system. Cigarette toxins reduce sperm count and motility, and can increase the number of sperm with DNA damage. Studies have found that male smokers are more likely to face fertility issues, and if conception does occur, there is a higher risk of miscarriage.

2. Alcohol

Excessive alcohol can lower testosterone levels and reduce sperm production. It can also affect the liver’s ability to process hormones properly. While moderate drinking is less harmful, cutting back or avoiding alcohol entirely can make a noticeable difference to sperm health.

3. Poor Diet

A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats can reduce sperm quality. Nutrient deficiencies, especially in zinc, selenium, and vitamin C, are also linked to low sperm count. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides the nutrients needed to produce healthy sperm.

4. Weight and Exercise

Being overweight or underweight can affect hormone levels and sperm quality. Regular exercise helps regulate testosterone and improve circulation, which supports sperm production. However, extreme training or overuse of anabolic steroids can have the opposite effect.

5. Stress and Sleep

High stress levels can disrupt hormone balance and can lower sperm count. Poor sleep adds to this by reducing testosterone levels. Managing stress through exercise, mindfulness, or hobbies can help restore balance and improve overall wellbeing.

The Role of Age in Male Fertility

It’s well known that a woman’s fertility declines with age, but men are also affected by time. While men can remain fertile into later life, sperm quality tends to decline gradually after the age of 40.

Older men often have lower sperm motility and more sperm DNA damage, which can make conception take longer and slightly increase the risk of pregnancy complications. It’s important for men to recognise that age plays a part and to take proactive steps early through lifestyle improvements, regular check-ups, and fertility assessments when needed.

When to Consider a Male Fertility Test

If conception has not occurred after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse, it’s recommended that both partners have fertility testing. However, men can benefit from an earlier check-up if they have known risk factors, such as:

• A history of undescended testicles or testicular injury
   
• Previous groin or prostate surgery
   
• Use of anabolic steroids or certain medications
   
• Exposure to radiation, chemicals, or heat at work
   
• Difficulty with erections or ejaculation
   

At Sims IVF, a simple semen analysis can provide valuable insight into sperm count, motility, and morphology (shape). The test helps identify whether there are any issues affecting fertility, allowing for the right treatment or lifestyle changes to be made.

Early testing not only gives answers but also helps relieve the uncertainty many couples feel when trying to conceive. You can book a semen analysis via our Couple’s Fertility Assessment Package. This package includes and AMH Test (female) – Blood test that checks egg quantity (ovarian reserve), Assessment Scan (female) – Trans-vaginal ultrasound scan that assesses ovaries and uterus. The assessment scan checks the anatomy of uterus and antral follicle count, Semen Analysis (male) -An assessment of a sperm sample and an Initial Consultation with a fertility doctor. 

Improving Fertility Through Lifestyle Changes

While some fertility problems are medical in nature, many can be improved through better health and habits. Movember’s focus on men’s wellbeing is a reminder that prevention and proactive care make a real difference.

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

Focus on foods high in antioxidants such as berries, leafy greens, nuts, and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients protect sperm from oxidative stress, which can damage DNA. Reducing processed foods and sugar also supports hormone balance.

2. Exercise Regularly

Moderate exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, improves blood flow and testosterone regulation. Avoid excessive high-intensity training, which can raise cortisol levels and lower sperm quality.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Body weight affects hormones that control sperm production. Achieving and maintaining a healthy BMI through diet and exercise can improve fertility outcomes.

4. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking

Reducing alcohol and quitting smoking are two of the simplest and most effective ways to boost sperm quality. Support groups, apps, or speaking with a GP can help men stay on track.

5. Manage Stress and Sleep Well

Regular rest is essential for hormone function. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night, and find ways to manage stress, whether through meditation, time outdoors, or simply connecting with friends.

These changes don’t only improve fertility but also support long-term health. Better cardiovascular health, improved mood, and balanced hormones benefit every part of life.

Mental Health and Fertility: Why the Two Are Linked

Infertility can affect confidence and relationships, and men often feel pressure to remain silent.

Fertility challenges are not uncommon. In around 30 to 450 percent of cases, male factors contribute to the issue. Talking about it, rather than bottling it up, helps remove stigma and encourages more men to seek support.

Stress and anxiety maycan also influence fertility by disrupting hormone levels and lowering libido. Taking care of mental wellbeing can therefore have a direct impact on reproductive health.

Men should know it’s normal to feel worried or frustrated, but help is available. At Sims IVF, patients are supported throughout testing and treatment with professional guidance and counselling if needed.

Medical Support and Treatment Options

For men who receive abnormal results from a semen analysis, there are many potential next steps depending on the cause. Treatments or interventions might include:

• Lifestyle changes, addressing habits, diet, and weight to improve sperm quality
   
• Medication, to treat hormone imbalances or infections affecting fertility
   
• Surgical procedures, if there are blockages or varicoceles (enlarged veins)
   
• Assisted reproductive techniques (ART), such as IVF, ICSI, or IUI, which can help achieve pregnancy using the healthiest sperm available
   

Each case is different, so early consultation with a fertility consultant specialist is essential. The earlier an issue is identified, the more options are available to help couples reach their goal of parenthood.

Why Movember Is the Right Time to Talk About Fertility

Movember is about sparking honest conversations about men’s health. Talking about fertility should be part of that. Many men don’t realise how much their everyday choices influence sperm health or how common fertility challenges are.

This November, encouraging open discussion helps break stigma and ensures men see fertility as a natural part of their overall wellbeing. Whether you’re planning a family now or thinking about it for the future, taking charge of your health today sets a strong foundation for tomorrow.

Practical Steps Men Can Take This Movember

• Book a routine health check with your GP
   
• Get a fertility assessment or semen analysis if you’re planning a family
   
• Talk openly with your partner about fertility and family goals
   
• Join Movember events to support awareness of men’s health
   
• Make one positive change, quit smoking, improve diet, or add more exercise
   

Each small step supports better health, which in turn supports better fertility.

Encouraging a More Open Conversation

Many men avoid talking about reproductive health because it feels personal or uncomfortable, but silence doesn’t help anyone. Normalising these conversations helps men feel more confident seeking support and taking action.

Partners, friends, and family can play an important role too. Checking in, encouraging healthy habits, and making fertility a shared conversation creates understanding and reduces pressure.

At Sims IVF, our specialists encourage open discussion, providing both education and care in a supportive environment. The goal is to help men and couples understand that fertility is part of overall wellbeing, not something to be ashamed of.

Final Thoughts

Movember is a time to raise awareness and spark real change in how men approach their health. Growing a moustache is symbolic, but what truly matters is the conversation that follows.

Talking about male fertility is one of the most meaningful ways to expand that discussion. By connecting physical health, mental wellbeing, and reproductive care, men can take proactive steps that improve not only fertility but overall quality of life.

This November talk about male fertility, encourage open dialogue, and take charge of your health, because taking care of yourself today can make all the difference for your future family.