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Why dads-to-be must quit drinking months before conception
Making a baby is a joint venture that requires more than just maternal care
Fertility has long been viewed through a maternal lens, but a prominent British surgeon is reminding prospective parents that "making a baby is a 50/50 partnership."
Dr Karan Rajan, a popular health expert, explains that a father’s lifestyle choices in the months before conception are just as vital as the mother's for a child's long-term health.
In a video shared on Sunday, Dr Rajan described parents as "co-founders in New Human LLC." While mothers must avoid substances that can disrupt organ formation during the first eight weeks, fathers must also be vigilant.
During the 74-day sperm production cycle, factors like alcohol, smoking, and chronic stress can cause DNA fragmentation.
These changes may lead to serious developmental issues, including heart defects and craniofacial problems.
The surgeon urges couples to start "optimising habits" three to six months before they begin trying. This window allows fathers to complete a full cycle of healthy sperm production and gives mothers time to detoxify their systems.
Beyond avoiding complications, good preconception health acts as biological "programming" for the child’s metabolism and immune system.
Dr Rajan acknowledges that developmental issues can stem from genetics or sheer chance, making blame unproductive.
However, he maintains that lifestyle is a controllable risk factor. To give a "tiny human" the best start, he suggests that both partners should start acting like parents long before they actually conceive.
By prioritising nutrition and cutting back on toxins, couples can positively influence their future child's wellbeing for decades to come.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media.