Factors That May Affect Fertility in Women
Recently, more and more couples are experiencing cases of infertility. In the U.S. alone, there are more than seven million couples who are having trouble conceiving. The number of infertile men against the number of infertile women does not have a distinct difference so far. Sperm count is the main culprit behind a man’s inability to have a child. With women, there are several factors that can affect her fertility.
1. Productivity disorders
Lots of women have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, an endocrine disorder that causes lack of ovulation. Those with PCOS have abnormal levels of reproductive and insulin hormones. Menstrual cycles and egg production are often irregular. Women with this disorder can help correct the problem by getting medication and maintaining the right weight through diet and regular exercise.
2. Weight
A fair lot of fertility issues are attributed to weight. Excess fat increases the level of estrogen in the body, which suppresses ovulation. Too little fat in the body lessens estrogen levels, which results to the reproductive cycle shutting down.
3. Diet
Women with unbalanced food intake can experience high infertility risks. To correct the problem, one should foods that are high in healthy fats, low in trans fat. These foods should also be a good source of whole grains and vegetable-based protein. Healthy eating habits will promote normal insulin levels which can help boost fertility.
4. Anemia
Those who lack iron and Vitamin B-12 in their body are susceptible to fertility problems. A healthy diet is needed to fight anemia. Foods such as beans, grains and vegetables are rich in folate. Vegetarians can get their much-needed supply of vitamin B-12 from supplements.
5. Tobacco
Smoking can affect both a man and a woman’s fertility. Aside from the obvious health disorders that one can get from smoking, tobacco can also result to genetic abnormalities in the egg and sperm.