Improving your diet, eating less saturated fat and more fibre When undergoing fertility treatment, it can be a stressful and emotional journey. It is essential to look after yourself be able to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to ensure you’re giving your body the best chance to produce healthy eggs and healthy sperm. Studies have previously shown the benefits of specific vitamins and minerals in egg quality, sperm quality, quantity and morphology, and the positive impact a healthy diet can have when trying to improve fertility and have a healthy pregnancy. For up to date news and research, please visit our fertility news and research page. Limiting intake of alcohol and caffeinated beverages Research has shown that excess caffeine and alcohol consumption can have a detrimental effect on both men and women aiming to improve fertility. Excess consumption can have a negative impact on sperm concentration, motility and morphology, and be a key factor in poor egg quality. Quitting smoking and avoiding recreational drug use It is widely known that smoking has a detrimental effect on the fertility rates of both males and females. Numerous studies presented around the world have reported that not only can smoking have an adverse effect on the IVF outcome of patients, it has also been strongly linked to poor embryo development, decreased fertilisation rates and can also increase the rate of miscarriages. Checking with your fertility specialist that any medications you are taking will not adversely affect fertility As harmless as they may seem, there are supplements and herbs that can interfere with the fertility medication you will need to take during your cycle. To improve fertility, it is essential that you tell your fertility specialist about any medications, supplements or herbs you have been taking to ensure they will not have an adverse effect on your cycle. Wear appropriate clothing Elevated scrotal temperatures have been known to have an adverse effect on sperm and a recent study from Harvard has revealed that tighter fitting underwear can raise the temperature significantly enough to have a negative impact. Read more about how a males choice of underwear can impact fertility. Avoiding environmental chemicals such as lead, pesticides and organic solvents Research has shown that high levels of chemical and heavy metal exposure can impact male sperm quality and may increase the risk of miscarriage due to elevated levels of DNA fragmentation. To improve fertility, it is important to try and minimise the amount of exposure and look at testing your sperm for DNA damage prior to commencing your treatment.