Blog

There has been a 20% to 30% rise in infertility in the country in the last five years as estimated by some of the best IVF center in Ahmedabad. While a majority of people know their overall health has an effect on their fertility, many are not aware that a few lifestyle choices also play a role in that.

Therefore, if you have just started trying for a baby or are having trouble conceiving, you should be aware of the role your lifestyle can play in fertility. Diet, nutrition, weight, and habits like smoking and drinking alcohol can have a direct impact on your fertility. These choices affect both men and women.

Below are some of the lifestyle choices that can affect your fertility

Alcohol:

Having a glass or two of wine might not have a large effect on your fertility, but it is always better to restrict your alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking can lead to increased risk of ovulation disorders in women and depleted sperm quantity and quality in men.

Smoking:

As we all already know, smoking is harmful to overall health, but many people are not fully aware of its effects on fertility. Smoking adversely affects both egg and sperm quality. According to gynecologist in Ahmedabad, it also lowers the sperm count, pregnancy rate and increases sperm DNA fragmentation, which can cause miscarriage.

Weight:

Being either underweight or overweight can reduce the fertility of both men and women. Men with a high body mass index (BMI) can have a lower sperm count and decreased sperm quality. Women with a high BMI are at a higher risk of miscarriage, stillbirth and cesarean delivery.

Diet:

What you eat and don’t eat can play a vital role in fertility. Women trying to conceive should avoid a high protein diet as excessive protein has been known to decrease fertility. Deficiency of Vitamin D can also reduce fertility.

Caffeine:

Some research suggests that high caffeine intake can reduce fertility, especially in women. A cup of coffee or two a day won’t be very harmful, but it is better to avoid excessive caffeine consumption.

Exercise:

Staying fit by regularly exercising is an essential aspect of a healthy lifestyle. But when it comes to fertility, it can be too much of a good thing. Very vigorous and frequent physical activity can cause lower sperm count and reduced ovulation.

There are many lifestyle changes that couples can make to improve their chances of conceiving a child. Ideally, such modifications should be made when first trying to conceive, but it is never too late to make healthier choices.