Overweight or Obesity is one of the rising concerns worldwide. We are certain that overweight leads to many adverse health problems, including sexual problems; infertility is one of the growing concerns affecting both men and women’s fertility. It is forcing the trend of need for assisted reproductive techniques(ART) for conception. Obesity turned out to be a commonly known risk factor for infertility problems in both men and women.
The mechanism of Obesity affecting the fertility levels of an individual is challenging to explain. There were several factors involved in the relationship of infertility due to Obesity. However, our fertility doctors in Hyderabad at Angels Fertility Clinic mentioned some significant infertility consequences due to Obesity in both men and women.
Obesity and Infertility Relation In Women
Many studies and experts stated that women with overweight are experiencing more pregnancy problems than women of normal weight. Though they are conceiving, then they are becoming a victim of miscarriages. This is because overweight can affect certain hormones associated with reproduction. A good balance of hormonal levels helps to control the menstrual cycle and reproduction.
Abnormal hormone balance due to Obesity negatively impacts the process of ovulation and egg release. In obese women, the production of insulin is more, which might cause irregular ovulation. Obesity, overproduction of insulin, and infertility relate closely to a condition called – Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
PCOS is a specific medical condition mostly seen in obese women, and it contributes to irregular menstrual cycles, anovulation, reduced endometrial receptivity, and excess production of male hormones. PCOS in obese women increases the decline of hormonal and metabolic functions, which eventually damages the quality of oocyte in women causing infertility. Sometimes PCOS in obese patients might affect even after conceiving through ART procedures and increases the chance of miscarriage.
Obesity and Infertility Relation In Men
Obesity affects the fertility levels of men equally. Men with Obesity faces more fertility problems than normal-weight men. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences(NIEHS) says that an increase of 10kg overweight is like increasing 10% more chances of infertility in men.
Obesity hampers the production of hormones in men, which affects the testicles and the production of sperm. Excess fat transforms the testosterone(male hormone) into estrogen, and the increased levels of estrogen can tamper the stimulation process of the testicles.
Researchers of human reproductive systems stated that men with high BMI had reduced testosterone levels. Compared to normal-weight men, obese men have 26% lower testosterone levels. Typically high BMI in men is also responsible for abnormal semen production as well. Overall, excess body weight or Obesity affects the quality and quantity of sperm.
Accumulation of excess body fat also decreases the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). In women, GnRH is responsible for the natural ovulation process, and in men, it is responsible for the production of sperm. Precisely, GnRH also accountable for the generation of luteinizing hormone(LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone(FSH) that plays a vital role in the development of eggs and sperm.
Many studies have proven that weight-loss is very important in managing many health conditions, including infertility problems. They also help in the successful management of full-term and healthy pregnancies. Weight loss can resolve most of your fertility problems. For more information, consult our fertility specialist in Hyderabad and get the best resolution for infertility due to overweight.