Starting a family is a dream for many, but for some, the path to parenthood can be more challenging than expected. Health issues that may seem unrelated at first glance can significantly impact a person's ability to conceive. For those eager to welcome a new life into their world, understanding these potential obstacles is key. We spoke to Dr Hira Mardi, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road, Bengaluru, who shed light on these common health challenges and how to navigate them on the journey to starting a family.
Health Issues Causing Difficulty To Conceive
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
“PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age and can cause irregular menstrual periods, excessive hair growth, and cysts on the ovaries. PCOS can make it difficult for women to conceive since they have difficulty ovulating,” said Dr Mardi. Treatment options for PCOS include medications to regulate hormones, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and in some cases, assisted reproductive technologies like In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).
Endometriosis
Another health issue that can impact fertility is endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other organs in the pelvis. “This can cause inflammation, scarring, and the formation of adhesions, which can interfere with the functioning of the reproductive organs and make it difficult for a woman to conceive. Treatment for endometriosis may include medications to manage pain and inflammation, surgery to remove abnormal tissue, and in some cases, fertility treatments”, said Dr Mardi.
Also Read: Understanding Fertility Health: Expert Explains Key Factors, Monitoring Tips, and Treatment Options
Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders, like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can also affect fertility. The thyroid gland plays a vital role in regulating the body's metabolism and hormone levels, and imbalances in thyroid function can disrupt the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Women with thyroid disorders may have difficulty conceiving or may be at higher risk for miscarriage. Treatment for thyroid disorders may involve medications to regulate thyroid hormone levels and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise
Impact of Weight on Fertility
“Obesity and being underweight can also affect a person's ability to conceive. Excess body fat can disrupt hormone levels and ovulation while being underweight can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulatory dysfunction. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help improve fertility outcomes for individuals who are struggling to conceive”, said Dr Mardi.
Also Read: PCOS, Obesity, And Infertility: Expert Explains Their Connection And What You Should Know
According to a 2015 study, women who are overweight or obese face a significantly higher risk when it comes to reproductive health. They are more likely to experience subfertility and infertility, along with lower conception rates, higher miscarriage rates, and an increased likelihood of pregnancy complications. These challenges affect both natural and assisted conception, leading to less favourable reproductive outcomes.
Bottomline
Dr Mardi concluded, “There are several common health issues that can interfere with a person's ability to conceive. By understanding these potential obstacles and seeking appropriate medical care, individuals hoping to start a family can increase their chances of successfully conceiving. It is important to work with healthcare providers to address any underlying health issues and explore treatment options that can help improve fertility outcomes.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]