5 things that can affect your fertility

By Dr. Shweta Goswami 

Many a times we didn’t realize that there are very basic things that causes hindrance in getting pregnant. Let’s get to know what are all these factors that can affect one’s fertility 

1.     Being obese   

Women who are overweight or obese have less chance overall of getting pregnant than women of a healthy weight (with ‘healthy’ defined as having a body mass index – or BMI – of between 20 and 25). Overweight and obese women are also more likely to take longer than a year to conceive. Being obese (BMI of more than 30) can cause pregnancy and birth complications, such as hypertension and pre-eclampsia. 

Overweight and obese men have worse sperm quality than men of healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can also cause hormonal changes that reduce fertility and make men less interested in sex. Men who are very overweight are also more likely to have problems getting an erection. 

Being overweight or obese in pregnancy also has implications for your baby’s health later on, as children born to overweight or obese mothers are more likely to become obese children and adults – with associated health problems (including fertility issues). 

The good news is that if you’re overweight or obese and planning to try for a baby, losing even a few kilos can increase your chances of getting pregnant. 

2.     Drinking too much caffeine  

Although there is not absolute evidence to suggest caffeine having a negative effect on your fertility, studies are constantly indicating that it can disrupt ovulation and hormone levels, as well as the efficiency of the fallopian tubes. 

3.     Alcohol and Smoking  

Everybody knows that smoking and drink alcohol are big NOs when pregnant but did you also know that excessive alcohol consumption over long periods of time and constant inhalation of cigarette fumes can affect your future fertility; Smoking can affect your hormone production and the environment in the uterus. It can also

damage your eggs.

4.     Too much stress  

It seems to a lot of people that stress can be seen to be at the centre of most problems- skin issues, premature aging, premature hair loss, exhaustion, insomnia. Mental tension has the power to cause hormonal changes in the body, which could lead to fertility issues in the future. 

5.     Dieting too much  

Both underweight and overweight women are at risk of fertility issues. The ideal body mass index is between 20 and 24. Nourish your body with what it needs - proteins (not necessarily just from animals; consider adding beans, pulses, nuts & soy to your diet), complex carbs (whole grains and vegetables that can be digested slowly), fiber and healthy fats (fish, avocado, coconuts) are VITAL.