Physical health is crucial for pregnancy, but some men mistakenly believe that pregnancy is solely a woman’s responsibility and that their only role is to provide a sperm cell, with no regard to their own health. This mindset is a significant misunderstanding. When preparing for pregnancy, both partners should undergo health checkups, maintain a healthy diet, appropriately supplement nutrition, manage weight, and establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

General health checkups include:

For women:

  • Cervical screening
  • Breast examination
  • Blood pressure
  • Weight
  • Blood tests

For men:

  • Semen analysis
  • Blood tests

For both partners:

  • Key immune antibodies
  • Infectious diseases (including sexually transmitted infections): even for viral carriers like hepatitis B, efforts should be made to minimize the risk of transmission to offspring.

Based on age, lifestyle habits, and health status, appropriate nutritional supplementation is essential. Some nutrients are particularly important when preparing for pregnancy, such as folic acid. Research shows that folic acid helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects in babies. If a woman of childbearing age has a family history of neural tube defects, type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or a body mass index (BMI) over 30, an increased dosage may be required. Specific recommendations should be followed according to medical advice.

The body is a balanced system, and any deficiency or excess can damage organs, systems, and cells. Therefore, nutritional supplementation should be approached scientifically, with balanced nutrition being key.

Note: The general recommendation for folic acid supplementation is for women to take 400-500 micrograms per day, starting three months before pregnancy.

A healthy diet can increase the chances of pregnancy, and studies have shown that women who eat a healthy diet before conception have a significantly lower risk of giving birth to babies with congenital defects. The diet should include a variety of fruits and vegetables, high-quality proteins (such as lean meat, fish, eggs, beans, and lentils), whole grains, and calcium (choose low-fat dairy products). Use healthy fats like olive oil; avoid fish high in mercury, such as mackerel, shark, swordfish, and tuna; and avoid foods with additives, artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, and high-fat content.

Severe overweight or underweight can reduce the chances of pregnancy. Severely overweight or underweight women are also at higher risk of complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and intrauterine growth restriction.

Obesity in women can cause hormonal changes, reducing fertility. Underweight women may also experience hormonal imbalances, cutting their fertility by half. In men, obesity can lead to hormonal issues or sexual dysfunction, making it harder for their partner to conceive.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a way to measure whether someone is overweight or underweight. The healthy BMI range for Asian populations is 22-25. If BMI is high, a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce weight and improve fertility. No one can achieve perfect fitness, ideal body shape, or desired weight overnight. Only consistent, moderate exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can control and sustain a normal BMI.