Dr. Fechner recently spoke with Liz Alterman about when to seek medical help with conception.
The most common causes for female infertility include damage to the uterus or fallopian tubes, ovulation problems, and issues with the cervix. The natural process of aging also contributes to infertility. Although sometimes infertility has a clear physical cause, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or chronic infection, sometimes fertility can be boosted by making simple lifestyle changes.
Infertility is due to the woman in around one-third of cases. Women who are trying to get pregnant either now or in the future should make the following lifestyle changes to increase chances of healthy fertility.
Women who are underweight or overweight are at a higher risk of ovulation disorders than those who maintain a healthy weight. Because ovulation disorders prevent the release of eggs on a monthly basis, these conditions can cause infertility in women. Women who need to lose weight should exercise moderately at least 3 times each week. Women should not practice strenuous exercise because this can also cause decreased ovulation.
Tobacco has a number of negative effects on health in general and also on fertility. This is because smoking affects women’s hormone production and the genetic material in eggs. Women who are considering becoming pregnant should stop smoking immediately.
Frequent alcohol use can decrease fertility in women. Women who are trying to get pregnant should avoid alcohol altogether. Pregnant women also should not drink.
Studies show that a high level of stress increases the body’s production of an enzyme known as alpha-amylase. This enzyme reduces a woman’s chance of conceiving. To reduce stress levels, women can practice meditation, yoga, tai chi, or creative visualization.
According to medical experts, caffeine can reduce muscle activity in a woman’s fallopian tubes, which can affect the chances of becoming pregnant. Women hoping to conceive should limit caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day.
Making these lifestyle changes can have a significant effect on a woman’s fertility. This not only helps make conception more likely but can also increase the chance that a woman will have a normal, full-term pregnancy. Staying healthy also increases the chance that the infant will have a strong immune system. Couples who are looking to get pregnant can speak with a fertility specialist for further recommendations.
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