A report published on August 26, 2026, outlines seven evidence-backed lifestyle habits intended to support fertility for men and women. The guidance, developed by reproductive endocrinologist Lucky Sekhon and reporter Andee Tagle, focuses on behavioral changes that may increase the probability of conception.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, heterosexual couples in their 20s and early 30s who engage in regular, unprotected sex have a 25% to 30% chance of pregnancy in any single month. Sekhon stated that while medical history, genetics, and hormone balance play primary roles, certain lifestyle factors are within an individual's control to adjust.
The report recommends that individuals seeking to conceive aim for 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise per week and consume foods that stabilize blood sugar. For women, the guidance suggests taking prenatal vitamins, while men are advised to avoid excessive heat exposure to the testicles. Additionally, the report advises both partners to avoid alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and stressful situations where possible.
The concrete day-to-day changes for these individuals would include adjustments to dietary habits to manage blood sugar and the elimination of substances such as nicotine and alcohol from their daily routines. These changes would be noticed immediately in a person's monthly grocery expenses and personal habits. For men, this also includes specific physical awareness regarding environmental factors that could affect sperm health, such as heat exposure.
The reported findings set a precedent for focusing on dual-partner responsibility in fertility, rather than focusing solely on the female partner. While the specific timeline for seeing results from these lifestyle changes is not reported, the guidance is presented as a method to support the biological "slot machine" of ovulation and fertilization. Following the publication of these recommendations, the next steps for interested individuals involve consulting with medical professionals to integrate these habits into their specific medical histories.