Everything That Can Go Wrong During a Pregnancy? TikTok Says It’s (Almost) Always the Man’s Fault
TikTok users have been buzzing over a trend that highlights the surprising role men’s health plays in pregnancy outcomes. In viral videos, creators unpack the science behind how sperm impacts fertility, pregnancy health, and even conditions like preeclampsia. While the videos carry an air of humor, they’re rooted in research that shows just how important male health is when planning for a baby.
What TikTok Creators Are Saying About Pregnancy and Men
In one video, Taylor Rae Almonte lists how men’s sperm affects pregnancy. She explains that poor sperm quality can lead to inflammation, higher miscarriage risks, and complications like preeclampsia. She points out that sperm contributes to immune system modulation, placenta development, and epigenetic changes in a baby’s genetic makeup.
Maya and Hunter, another couple, share a similar perspective. “Men should have to spend nine months getting in the best physical shape of their life before having a baby,” says Hunter. “Preeclampsia is tied to men. Morning sickness is tied to men because men build the placenta.”
The tone is playful, but the underlying message is serious: male health matters. According to Almonte, her husband took these facts to heart. He overhauled his diet, exercised rigorously, and cut out alcohol for a year before they tried to conceive. Almonte says the results were worth it. She got pregnant on the first try.
Sperm Quality Can Make or Break a Pregnancy
Scientific studies back up what these TikTokers are saying. Research from the University of Utah found that high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation—when genetic material in sperm is damaged—double the likelihood of miscarriage. Damaged sperm also reduces embryo quality, lowering implantation rates and pregnancy success.
Lifestyle factors play a significant role in sperm health. Stress, smoking, poor diet, and exposure to toxins can all increase oxidative stress in sperm, leading to DNA damage. The Mayo Clinic recommends maintaining a healthy weight, eating antioxidant-rich foods, and avoiding alcohol to improve sperm health.
In fact, men’s health choices can influence pregnancy outcomes long before conception. Sperm takes about 90 days to develop, meaning a man’s habits three months before trying to conceive can directly impact fertility and pregnancy success.
Preeclampsia and the Father’s Role
One of the most surprising connections between male health and pregnancy involves preeclampsia—a dangerous condition characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage. According to a 2014 study in the Journal of Reproductive Immunology, seminal fluid exposure can reduce the risk of preeclampsia. The research suggests that a woman’s body becomes more tolerant of paternal antigens in sperm with repeated exposure, potentially protecting her from developing the condition.
A review in Frontiers in Physiology highlights the genetic influence of sperm on preeclampsia. Variants in fetal genes inherited from the father can increase immune incompatibility with the mother, raising the risk. The study also notes that men born to mothers with preeclampsia are more likely to father pregnancies affected by the condition.
How Men’s Health Impacts Miscarriage
Miscarriage is another area where male health plays a critical role. According to research from Examen Lab, over 85% of men whose partners experience recurrent miscarriages have high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation. This underscores the importance of lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and managing stress.
The role of sperm in pregnancy goes beyond fertilization. Researchers at the University of Adelaide found that sperm sends signals to the female body, “persuading” it to accept the embryo and support implantation. Damaged sperm weakens this signaling, increasing the likelihood of pregnancy complications.
Epigenetics: How Men’s Choices Shape Their Baby’s Future
Emerging science in epigenetics reveals that a man’s lifestyle can leave biological “marks” on his sperm, influencing the health of his future child. A study from the University of Utah showed that men with higher weight who underwent weight loss surgery had noticeable improvements in the epigenetic programming of their sperm. These changes could reduce the risk of conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome in their offspring.
Environmental exposures also play a role. According to The Washington Post, toxins like endocrine disruptors can trigger epigenetic changes in sperm. These changes can impact fetal development and may even carry through multiple generations.
What TikTok Gets Right About Pregnancy
While TikTok creators like Almonte and Hunter deliver their messages with humor, their emphasis on male accountability is grounded in science. Preparing for pregnancy isn’t just about the woman’s health—it’s a shared responsibility. Experts like Dr. Kirtly Jones agree, saying, “Plan your pregnancy. Act pregnant before you get pregnant.”
From improving sperm quality to reducing the risk of complications like preeclampsia and miscarriage, men’s health matters. The research makes it clear: when both partners prioritize their well-being, the chances of a healthy pregnancy increase dramatically.
