Wednesday, April 30, 2008 12:00 AM

(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.