Is Infertility Genetic?
Many people wonder if fertility issues are primarily caused by genetic mutations and disorders. Evidence suggests that a person’s genetic makeup does have a significant impact on fertility issues, but lifestyle factors also play a key role in fertility outcomes. Diet, exercise, and stress can all affect fertility in both men and women. Furthermore, obesity has been linked to increased risk of fertility and pregnancy complications.
Diet and its impact on fertility
Research shows that diets rich in folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, isoflavones, polyunsaturated fats, vegetables, full-fat dairy, and fruits are more likely to have a positive impact on fertility. Diets filled with processed foods, lots of red meat, saturated fats, and sweets have an adverse effect on fertility. The Mediterranean diet is particularly beneficial with researchers documenting a 44% decrease in fertility issues for participants on the diet. Studies revealed that consuming excessive amounts of red meat may cause issues with embryo development in women and semen concentration in men. Therefore, consuming a well-balanced diet is crucial for both men and women interested in becoming pregnant.
The importance of exercise
Exercise is another lifestyle factor that affects fertility. Doctors encourage overweight patients to use exercise as a tool to lose weight and improve fertility outcomes. Physical activity has been shown to have a positive effect on women dealing with mental health issues, especially regarding fertility. Research has proven that weekly vigorous exercise improves the rate of conception for women dealing with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Moderate exercise is also safe for patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments.
Does stress affect fertility?
Dealing with infertility can lead to stress, causing depression and anxiety in patients struggling to conceive. This is in addition to the environmental stress people face daily. Statistics show that up to 60% of infertility patients report psychological symptoms. Furthermore, these symptoms are the main reason many patients stop ART treatments altogether. Researchers have also discovered a link between miscarriages and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additional research shows that women with high stress levels can take longer to naturally conceive.
Tying it all together
The good news is that stress, exercise, and diet are all factors that the patient controls. The patient controls the stress levels, amount of exercise, and dietary intake. Patients should take proactive steps and start incorporating the necessary changes into their routine. Try to eat healthier foods, engage in more physical activity during the week, and manage stress levels by incorporating relaxing activities. Making these changes will greatly improve the patient’s chances of conception.
Consulting a doctor
Only a medical physician can diagnose someone with infertility. Couples who are struggling to conceive should reach out to a physician to schedule a medical examination. The physician will refer the patient to additional specialists for fertility testing, if necessary.
