By Dr. Anjali Deval, IVF Specialist & Gynaecologist, IVF Spring – Mumbai
In today’s hectic world, many couples hoping to start a family are finding the path to parenthood more challenging than ever. Lifestyle habits, stress, and environmental pollutants are all taking a toll on fertility, affecting both men and women. From poor diet and irregular sleep to exposure to harmful toxins, these factors complicate conception and impact reproductive health significantly.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 48 million couples globally struggle with infertility. Stress, poor nutrition, and pollution are all major contributors. Understanding these causes and taking action early is crucial for anyone hoping to start a family. With around 1 in 6 couples experiencing infertility, it’s evident that increased access to quality fertility care is essential.
The Impact of Stress and Lifestyle on Fertility
How Stress Affects Hormones
Chronic stress impacts hormone levels, which can disrupt ovulation in women and reduce sperm production in men. High-stress levels increase cortisol, which interferes with reproductive hormones like estrogen and testosterone, complicating conception further.
Lifestyle Stressors and Unhealthy Habits
Long work hours, financial worries, and relationship strains all contribute to stress, affecting hormone levels and, ultimately, fertility. Unhealthy habits, such as smoking and excessive alcohol use, can decrease egg quality in women and sperm quality in men, reducing the chances of natural conception.
Managing Stress for Better Fertility
Adopting stress-management techniques like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can improve overall well-being and support reproductive health. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals also contributes to better fertility.
Recognizing Male Infertility: Symptoms and Causes
Common symptoms of male infertility include low sperm count, poor sperm quality, and azoospermia (absence of sperm). Lifestyle factors, such as pollution, smoking, and even tight clothing, can further impact male fertility by affecting hormone balance and sperm quality.
Female Infertility: Symptoms and Common Causes
For women, symptoms like irregular periods, pelvic pain, and hormonal imbalances often indicate fertility issues. Conditions such as endometriosis, ovulation disorders, and blocked fallopian tubes can hinder conception. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a leading cause of female infertility, interferes with normal ovulation and is often accompanied by symptoms like irregular cycles and weight gain.
The Role of Age in IVF Success Rates
Age is a significant factor in fertility, especially for women over 35, as egg quality declines with age. Men also experience reduced sperm quality as they age. For couples considering IVF, discussing age-related factors with a fertility specialist early can improve success rates and help navigate the challenges of delayed parenthood.
Pollution’s Impact on Miscarriage and Fertility
Research shows a link between pollution and increased miscarriage rates. Environmental toxins, particularly in polluted areas, can complicate both conception and pregnancy, making it essential to address pollution’s effects on fertility.
Preserving Male Fertility in High-Pollution Cities
In cities like Mumbai, environmental toxins can harm male fertility, leading to low sperm count and even azoospermia. Techniques like sperm banking offer men an option to preserve fertility for the future, while lifestyle adjustments can help minimize exposure to harmful pollutants.
Moving Forward with Support and Awareness
Understanding the effects of lifestyle, stress, and pollution on fertility empowers couples to make informed choices. Reaching out to fertility specialists, support groups, and healthcare providers can help couples navigate their fertility journey with confidence. With the right support and resources, the dream of parenthood remains within reach.
