Fertility struggles in both men and women have been linked to obesity and being underweight. For those trying to conceive or facing difficulties, reaching a healthy weight is often recommended.
A healthy weight is typically defined by a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9. While BMI isn’t a perfect measure of health, it provides a useful indicator of potential health risks. A BMI over 25, which falls into the overweight category, has been linked to issues such as abnormal menstrual cycles, decreased pregnancy rates, higher rates of miscarriage, and longer times to conceive.
“People who are overweight, including those with obesity, can still become pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy,” said Dr. Haley Meyer, OB/GYN at Essentia Health. “However, weight is an important factor that can impact the function of the female reproductive system.”
Excess weight affects the female reproductive system in various ways. Hormonal imbalances can result in irregular periods, making it difficult to predict ovulation, which is crucial for conception. Obesity and excess body fat can disrupt hormone production, lower egg quality, increase blood sugar levels, and contribute to health conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Anovulation, or the failure of the ovaries to release an egg, is often associated with obesity. This is linked to insulin resistance, which raises insulin levels in the bloodstream and disrupts the production of sex hormones, further affecting ovulation. Additionally, carrying excess weight is a major risk factor for PCOS, a common hormonal disorder that can lead to irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and other fertility issues. Obesity can also impact egg quality, reducing the chances of successful fertilization and implantation.
For those concerned about fertility, losing weight can help. Even moderate weight loss of around 5% to 10% of excess body weight can have a positive impact on reproductive health. While the goal is often to achieve and maintain a BMI within the healthy range, it’s important to remember that a healthy lifestyle is key. Exercise and good nutrition are just as crucial as focusing on weight alone.
“Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is not just about the numbers on the scale,” Dr. Meyer explained. “Leading an overall healthy lifestyle with exercise and good nutrition is equally important. It is also essential to consider metabolic health and how it can affect conception and pregnancy.”
If you’re unsure whether your weight is impacting your fertility, speaking with a healthcare provider can help determine a healthy weight range for you and suggest ways to improve fertility through lifestyle changes and treatments.
Reaching a healthy weight for conception may not always be easy, especially with busy lives and stress. However, small changes to diet and regular exercise can make a significant difference. Focus on eating whole, nutritious foods, increasing your physical activity, and managing stress. If you continue to struggle with weight loss, a weight-loss specialist can offer personalized guidance and support.
Fertility challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support from healthcare professionals, including fertility specialists, you can find the path that works best for you. They can help diagnose underlying conditions and recommend treatments to improve your chances of conception and a healthy pregnancy.
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