If starting a family is on your 2026 to-do list, there are a bunch of things you can do right now to improve your chances of conceiving, support your partner’s pregnancy and benefit the health of your kids. In this mini-episode of Dad Starts Now, host Dr Tim Moss breaks down the 10 practical, evidence-based steps all men should take before trying for a baby. From understanding how conception actually works to improving sperm health and knowing when to see your GP. 

Key takeaways:

• Becoming a dad starts months before trying for a baby, because sperm health today affects your chances of conceiving down the track
• Preparing for pregnancy works best as a team, with men actively supporting their partner and getting involved early 
• See your GP for a preconception health check first — they will talk with you about your medical history, any changes you should make to your health and any screening tests you need
• Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol, weight, diet and heat exposure directly impact sperm quality — and these are fixable

More resources:

How men can improve chances of conception

Preconception health checklist for men

Healthy Father, Healthy Future

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The end bits:

This podcast was created by Healthy Male — an Australian not-for-profit that provides evidence-based information on men's health. You can find more from us on Instagram, TikTok and our website.

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which this podcast was recorded — the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, and the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples listening today.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment and personalised medical guidance.