Your Valentine's Day Sperm-Health Gift Guide

Nothing says “I love you”, like a gift for your special Valentine’s Sperm.

While babies inherit DNA equally from both the egg and the sperm, here we are with societal norms continuing to place most of the fertility responsibility on women. In reality, preconception care for sperm health is just as crucial as for egg health, and OMG, I’ve had enough of saying it, but it really should not be overlooked. With that in mind, let’s use Feb 14 as an opportunity to get those sperm parameters in top condition. Happy Valentine’s Day lovers!

1. Oysters: zinc - but make it romantic

Nothing says romance like oysters on Valentine’s Day. FYI, there’s no good research that they are an aphrodisiac, however they are packed with zinc, a critical nutrient for sperm production and quality. Zinc plays a role in sperm motility, morphology, and count. If, like me, you find oysters more ick than appetising, opt for other zinc-rich foods -

  • lean beef

  • pumpkin seeds

  • shellfish

  • eggs

  • or consider zinc in a supplement form.

2. A High-Quality Men’s Fertility Multivitamin

The process of sperm production takes a long time - around 88 days. If you’re thinking about having a baby, you want to be thinking about the health of sperm for about 3 months prior to starting to try conceive. A sperm specific multi makes is easy to get some of the foundational nutrients for healthy sperm.

Look for a well-researched men’s fertility supplement containing optimal doses of key nutrients like zinc, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin E, and L-carnitine to work together to protect sperm from oxidative stress, improve DNA integrity, and boost overall sperm health.

3. Chocolate, for the sweetest dose of antioxidants

But a caveat, it has to be the right chocolate. We’re talking high-quality, dark chocolate with 70% plus cocoa. Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, dark chocolate may help protect sperm from damage caused by free radicals. There’s more on antioxidants here, because quite honestly, there are more efficient ways to find antioxidants, and IMO, more delicious ways to eat chocolate.

4. Pins, or more accurately, needles

Consider an acupuncture protocol designed to support sperm health and overall well-being. Research has shown that acupuncture can improve sperm motility, count, and morphology by reducing stress, enhancing blood flow to the reproductive organs, and addressing hormone health. A 2022 review highlighted acupuncture’s potential in addressing male infertility by improving sperm quality and reducing oxidative stress. It’s a relaxing and effective gift.



5. Hydration help - but remember that plastic sucks.

Hydration is often overlooked in fertility discussions, but it’s crucial for maintaining healthy sperm. Seminal fluid—the transport system for sperm—requires proper hydration to stay at optimal levels. If your sperm-having Valentine doesn’t carry a bottle, it’s not a terrible idea to help them along. Opt for BPA and BPS free - glass is a great option. The impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on male fertility is a hot topic ATM, certainly recent research in both animals and humans suggests a clear link between exposure to forever chemicals and poorer sperm parameters.

6. The gift of relaxation

There is enough scientific data to suggest that psychological and/or physiological stress can severely affect the development of sperm, most likely as a result of varying testosterone secretion . I will never ever get on board the “just relax and it’ll happen” train, but most certainly mitigating stress should be taken seriously. Think meditation apps like calm (great for those with trouble sleeping) or headspace (we love for beginners) a massage or an acupuncture session or three.


Want to know more about sperm health? There is a whole chapter in my book Trying: An evidenced based guide to conceiving sooner - ebook available.

Jenna Mcdonald