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February 3, 2026
myHSA: Spotlight from the Fertility and Wellness Collective
We're talking to myHSA on how Canadian companies can support employees with health and wellness benefits.
For far too long, the narrative around fertility has placed the burden squarely on women's shoulders. But here's the truth: the male is solely responsible in about 20% of cases and is a contributing factor in another 30–40% of all infertility cases. And yet, how often are men the ones getting tested first? Not nearly enough.
Sperm quality isn't just about quantity. It's about motility (can they swim?), morphology (are they shaped right?), and DNA integrity (is the genetic material intact?). Male fertility can be influenced by lifestyle, environment, and overall health just as much as female fertility is. Yet because fertility conversations have been overwhelmingly focused on women, many men don't realize they should be actively working to optimize their sperm health.
Regular physical activity helps regulate hormones and improve circulation, both of which contribute to healthier sperm. However, excessive high-intensity workouts (especially paired with steroid use) can backfire and lower testosterone levels. The goal is moderate, consistent exercise—think strength training, walking, and cardio. Note: cycling is an exception, as too much pressure on the pelvic area can be counterproductive.
Heat is the enemy of sperm. Hot tubs, saunas, tight underwear, and even placing a laptop directly on the lap can increase scrotal temperature and harm sperm production. The testicles need to stay a few degrees cooler than the rest of the body.
A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and key vitamins like C, D, and E can enhance sperm quality. Meanwhile, diets high in processed foods, trans fats, and excessive sugar can contribute to poor sperm health. Some top fertility-boosting foods include:
Smoking (including cannabis) damages sperm DNA, reduces sperm count, and lowers motility. Excessive alcohol consumption affects hormone levels and contributes to poor sperm health. If sperm quality is a concern, reducing alcohol and quitting smoking is one of the best things a man can do.
Testosterone production happens largely during sleep. Studies show that men who get less than 6 hours per night tend to have lower sperm counts. Prioritizing 7–9 hours of sleep helps with sperm production and overall hormonal balance.
If you're actively trying to conceive, a semen analysis should be step one—not an afterthought. It's non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, and can provide crucial insights into sperm health. The earlier issues are identified, the faster they can be addressed.
For women who have spent months (or years) blaming themselves for struggling to conceive, this is your reminder that fertility is not solely a female issue. The weight of infertility should never fall squarely on your shoulders. Too many women endure invasive tests, treatments, and emotional tolls before their partner has even taken a simple sperm test. That needs to change.
Male fertility isn't just about "doing better" for the sake of pregnancy—it's about overall health, longevity, and wellbeing. The good news? Most lifestyle-related sperm issues are reversible with simple changes. Fertility isn't just a women's issue—it's something everyone should be aware of. Join myStoria today to get the insights, support, and knowledge you need to improve outcomes.
