Infertility has remained a common health challenge around the world. It refers to the inability to conceive or become pregnant even after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. About 17.5% of the adult population, roughly 1 in 6 people worldwide, experience infertility, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Research suggests that approximately 10–15% of couples will have difficulties getting pregnant.
Many factors can contribute to it. While drinking alcohol, smoking, doing drugs, and following an unhealthy diet are some of the common reasons, obesity or being overweight is another big contributor to the condition. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Lakshmi Chirumamilla, Fertility Consultant, Nova IVF Fertility, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, explains how unhealthy weight can impact fertility.
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What Is Obesity?
Obesity is defined as having a high Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI refers to the measure of body fat based on a person's height and weight. A BMI over 25 is considered overweight, whereas if it exceeds 30, it is considered obese.
As per the WHO, a high BMI accounted for an estimated 50 lakh noncommunicable disease (NCD) deaths in 2019.
It is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases, including Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs), such as heart disease and stroke, diabetes, liver disease, and cancer.
How Obesity Impacts Fertility?
Obesity can impact fertility in several ways. In fact, overweight and obese women are at a greater risk of infertility, conception rates, miscarriage rates, and pregnancy complications, according to a study published in the Journal of the Turkish-German Gynecological Association. Some of the ways obesity impacts fertility include:
Hormonal Imbalance: Obesity can disrupt the hormonal balance in the reproductive system, such as insulin, oestrogen, and androgens. This imbalance can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, ovulation problems, and decreased egg quality, says Dr Chirumamilla.
Ovulation Issues: Women with obesity are more likely to experience irregular ovulation, anovulation, or a lack of ovulation, which can make it difficult to conceive naturally.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a condition characterised by hormonal imbalances, ovarian cysts, and irregular menstrual cycles. This can hinder fertility by causing irregular ovulation or even a complete absence of ovulation. Obesity is a major risk factor for the condition.
Reduced Fertility Potential: Obesity is linked to a decreased response to fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and a higher risk of miscarriage, as well as complications during pregnancy and delivery.
Also Read: Fertility Boost: The Role of Nutrition in Enhancing Your Chances
What Are The Chances Of Pregnancy With Obesity?
According to the Mayo Clinic, a higher BMI may inhibit regular ovulation, which can make it difficult to achieve pregnancy. It has also been associated with a greater risk of unsuccessful IVF procedures.
Additionally, even if you conceive, research suggests that being overweight or obese may increase your risk of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, macrosomia, and caesarean deliveries.
But Dr Chirumamilla says, "While the chances of getting pregnant may be lower for women with obesity, it's important to remember that fertility is influenced by multiple factors, including overall health, age, reproductive history, and lifestyle factors."
"Some women with obesity may still conceive naturally, especially with lifestyle modifications and appropriate medical interventions," she adds.
If you’re opting for an IVF, here are some ways to improve your chances of conceiving:
- Working towards and maintaining a healthy weight
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management
- Taking certain medications to improve ovulation and increase the chances of successful IVF (only prescribed by the doctor)
- Get customised IVF protocols to address specific challenges.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can be considered to select embryos with the highest likelihood of implantation, thereby improving the success of IVF.
Conclusion
Fertility challenges are common in people with excess weight. The higher the BMI, the riskier the fertility journey. Those who are obese may be at a greater risk of infertility or other pregnancy-related complications. The key is to manage your weight, make healthier lifestyle choices, and avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Additionally, for those opting for IVF, maintaining a healthy weight may increase your success rate.