Factors influencing natural fertility
Natural fertility is affected by a number of factors, some of which are genetic in origin, while others are linked to the environment or lifestyle, and can therefore be modified. After the age of 35, it is advisable to seek advice if you are unable to conceive after 6 months. These factors include smoking, a family history of premature menopause and surgery on the ovaries.
Aging has less pronounced effects in men, but there is an increased risk of genetic disease and possibly autism in children conceived by men over 50. Underweight or overweight can contribute to ovulatory dysfunction and infertility. A body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight, while a BMI of 30 or more is associated with obesity.
The impact of obesity on fertility
Obesity is linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and lower success rates for fertility treatments. Pregnancy problems associated with obesity include an increased risk of hypertension, diabetes, birth defects and caesarean section. Sperm quality has also been shown to be lower in obese men.
Effects of caffeine on fertility
In some studies, excessive coffee consumption has been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.
Smoking and infertility
Data consistently show that infertility is higher, pregnancy rates are lower and conception time is longer in smokers compared to non-smokers. Smokers require higher doses of medication, produce fewer eggs and have more cancelled cycles. Smoking has been associated with decreases in sperm concentration, motility potential and morphological alterations, although the evidence linking these to infertility is debatable.
Alcohol consumption and fertility
However, evidence concerning the link between alcohol consumption, quantity consumed and infertility remains inconclusive. Alcohol also has other adverse effects on health; for this reason, the recommendation is less than 1-2 drinks a day or less than 9 drinks a week for women. Alcohol consumption by men appears to be associated with a reduced chance of pregnancy when it exceeds 20 drinks per week. Despite these data, it is generally recommended to limit alcohol consumption to less than 2 drinks a week for women and 4 for men.
- Smoking
- Alcoholv
- Caffeine
- Obesity
Vitamins and fertility
A recent study by the Motherisk program at the Hospital for Sick Children has shown that taking a prenatal vitamin significantly reduces the risk of certain birth defects, and suggests that all women of childbearing age should take a multivitamin complex containing folic acid. In men, taking vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium may help improve motility, while taking a multivitamin containing zinc may promote sperm production.
Adopt a balanced lifestyle to optimize your natural fertility
A healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, stress reduction and the avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, helps create optimal conditions for a healthy and happy pregnancy.
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