Written by Rhiannon Davis. Reviewed by Jenny Wordsworth and the ExSeed team.

When it comes to fertility, understanding the impact of both egg and sperm health is essential for a balanced and effective approach. Although female* fertility has often been in the spotlight, research reveals that male* factors contribute to approximately 30-40% of infertility cases, making it critical to address both sides equally. That’s why it’s time to take a closer look at both sides, with help from the experts: OVUM (female fertility aficionados) and ExSeed (male fertility pros). So… let’s dive in.

Hormone Levels in Diagnosing Infertility

Understanding the Role of FSH, LH, Oestrogen, and Progesterone

A handful of key hormones do the heavy lifting when it comes to fertility in women and people, like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). FSH initiates the growth of ovarian follicles, while LH triggers ovulation, marking the release of a mature egg. Oestrogen and progesterone work closely in preparing the uterine lining for potential implantation in case an egg wants to stick around. Checking up on these hormones (hello blood tests) or tracking ovulation through basal body temperature and ovulation predictor kits can give you a sense of what’s happening behind the scenes. Such diagnostics help determine when hormone levels might be impacting fertility, allowing for tailored treatments or lifestyle adjustments.

Testosterone, FSH, and LH in Sperm Production

For men and people, testosterone, FSH, and LH play pivotal roles in spermatogenesis, the process of producing healthy sperm. Testosterone is essential for sperm production, while FSH and LH stimulate the testicles to produce sperm and testosterone, respectively. Hormone testing and semen analysis are easy ways to get a good picture of what’s going on. This information can then guide proactive steps for optimising sperm health, such as lifestyle changes or supplementation.

💡ExSeed say “[Testosterone] is what really kick starts the process of fertility”

Steps to Improve Egg Health

Scientific Overview: Egg Maturation and the Importance of Timing

Eggs undergo a maturation process called folliculogenesis, taking around three months for an egg to develop before ovulation. This timeline means that lifestyle changes and supplementation should ideally begin at least three months prior to attempting conception.

Practical Steps from Dr. Phoebe for Enhancing Egg Health

1. Supplement Smartly: Supplements backed by evidence, like OVUM’s Time to Conceive®, can support egg health. Key nutrients such as CoQ10, folate, and vitamin D are known to improve mitochondrial function, improve cell energy, and support DNA synthesis—all crucial for egg quality.
2. Prioritise a Balanced Diet: Leafy greens, berries, and nuts are all rich in antioxidants, which help fight off oxidative stress and keep those eggs in top shape.
3. Manage Stress and Exercise Mindfully: Chronic stress and high-intensity workouts can throw hormones off balance. Yoga, meditation, and moderate exercise are ideal ways to support overall reproductive health.
4. Cut Back on Smoking and Drinking: Both can affect egg quality, so consider this your “time to detox” if you’re gearing up to TTC.

Incorporating these habits three months before conceiving provides the best chance for optimal egg health.

Steps to Improve Sperm Health

The Science Bit: The 74-Day Journey to Healthy Sperm

For men and people, sperm production, or spermatogenesis, takes approximately 74 days, meaning any changes or interventions can take over two months to impact sperm quality.  But the good news is, with a bit of patience, you’ll be setting yourself up for better-quality sperm. 

Practical Steps for Enhancing Sperm Health

1. Nutritional Supplements: Supplements containing zinc, selenium, CoQ10, and antioxidants are beneficial for sperm health. These nutrients protect sperm from oxidative stress, promote energy production, and support DNA integrity.
2. Track Sperm Health at Home: ExSeed’s Male Fertility Test offers a convenient way to monitor sperm quality at home, providing actionable insights to improve sperm health. Checking progress at home? Yep, you can do that now.
3. Lifestyle Choices: Avoid prolonged heat exposure, such as from hot tubs or saunas, as well as frequent bicycle riding, which may affect sperm quality. Choose loose-fitting clothing and take breaks to keep things cool down there.
4. Skip the Smoke and Limit Alcohol: Both can affect sperm quality, so aim for moderation.

Taking these steps around three months before you start trying can give sperm a better chance to swim!

💡ExSeed say “Wearing tight clothing frequently can be detrimental to your sperm production.”

When to Seek Medical Help for Fertility

While lifestyle changes and supplements can greatly enhance fertility, there may be cases where medical intervention is necessary. Aspiring parents are encouraged to consult a fertility specialist if:

• They have been trying to conceive for a year without success (or six months if over age 35).
• They have known medical conditions that may impact fertility, such as PCOS, endometriosis, or a history of sexually transmitted infections.

💡ExSeed say “Sexual dysfunction, like low sex drive or erectile issues, might hint at underlying causes of low sperm count such as hormonal imbalances or diabetes, but the only way to know for certain is with a semen analysis.”

Optimising Fertility Together

Whether you’re focusing on egg health, sperm health, or both, tackling fertility together holistically can make the journey a little easier. By understanding your hormones, taking proactive steps, and seeking help when needed, you’re giving yourselves the best chance possible.

Let’s sum it up

Balancing improvements to egg and sperm health is essential for a successful conception journey. By understanding hormone levels, taking proactive steps to improve egg and sperm health, and knowing when to seek expert help, aspiring parents can navigate the challenges of fertility with confidence.

Use code OVUM10 when shopping at ExSeed for 10% off.

*The Language We Use:

Throughout our content, we use additive language to support all the identities in the LGBTQIA+ community. We may refer to women and people, those whose sex was recorded female or male at birth, and same-sex couples or other LGBTQIA+ people. We do this to ensure that everyone is represented and included in the language and to appreciate there is a myriad of different sexual orientations, gender identities, family creation pathways and families within the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you have suggestions for other terms that would better represent your identity, please contact us. We value your input and want to make sure everyone feels acknowledged.