(HealthDay News) -- When trying to conceive, good health is important for both moms- and dads-to-be. Future fathers can help a couple's chances of having a healthy baby.

Here are a few pre-pregnancy suggestions for would-be dads, courtesy of the American Pregnancy Association:

  • Visit your doctor for a general checkup.
  • Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking, to determine if any of them may affect fertility.
  • Get plenty of sleep, and maintain a healthy diet. Be sure to get plenty of zinc and vitamin E.
  • Stop drinking alcohol and smoking, and never use illegal drugs.
  • Practice good testicular health. Avoid immersion in hot water (hot tubs or spas), long hot showers, or wearing briefs or tight pants.
  • Avoid bicycling.