Fertility is influenced by age, reproductive anatomy, eggs, sperm and many medical factors.
Lifestyle is another part of the picture—but it should be discussed without blaming patients for infertility.
Smoking
Smoking is one of the clearest modifiable reproductive risk factors.
It can negatively affect female and male reproductive health and is also associated with pregnancy complications.
Stopping smoking benefits fertility and overall health.
Weight
Both very low and very high body weight can influence reproductive function.
In some women, excess weight contributes to irregular ovulation.
Weight can also influence pregnancy risks and the safety of procedures.
The goal should be sustainable improvement rather than rapid weight loss.
Exercise
Regular exercise supports metabolic and cardiovascular health.
Extremely intensive exercise combined with inadequate energy intake can disrupt ovulation in some women, but normal moderate exercise is generally beneficial.
Alcohol
Heavy alcohol consumption can adversely affect general and reproductive health.
Women planning pregnancy should follow appropriate preconception and pregnancy recommendations.
Men should also avoid excessive alcohol intake.
Nutrition
There is no proven “IVF diet” that guarantees pregnancy.
A balanced dietary pattern based on vegetables, fruit, whole grains, appropriate protein sources and healthy fats is sensible for general health.
Patients should be cautious about restrictive fertility diets without evidence.
Sleep
Sleep is increasingly recognised as an important component of metabolic and general health.
Shift workers and FIFO workers may find regular sleep particularly challenging.
While improving sleep cannot correct every fertility problem, prioritising adequate rest is worthwhile.
Heat and Male Fertility
The testes function optimally at temperatures below core body temperature.
Repeated excessive heat exposure may affect semen parameters in some circumstances.
Men with fertility concerns should discuss relevant occupational and lifestyle exposures with their clinician.
Environmental and Occupational Factors
Certain workplaces may involve heat, solvents, chemicals, heavy metals or other potential reproductive exposures.
Risk depends on the specific substance and level of exposure.
Appropriate workplace safety measures should be followed.
The Take-Home Message
Lifestyle optimisation can support reproductive and general health, but infertility should not simply be attributed to lifestyle.
Age, ovarian reserve, sperm, ovulation, fallopian tubes and uterine factors still require appropriate investigation.
Healthy habits should complement—not replace—proper fertility assessment.
