How to reduce the risk of infertility


How to reduce the risk of infertility

Infertility is described as not being able to get pregnant despite having frequent, unprotected sex for at least a year for most couples. Infertility problems may result from an issue with either you or your partner, or a combination of factors that prevent pregnancy. In women, causes of infertility can include endometriosis, uterine fibroids and thyroid disease. Men with fertility problems may have a low sperm count or low testosterone. There are many reasons for infertility, including age with which the risk of infertility increases.

Some of the ways to reduce the risk of infertility are as follows:

  • Avoid substance abuse
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Reduce stress and manage mood
  • Do not postpone pregnancy
  • Keep your menstrual cycle regulated
  • Keep chronic conditions under control
  • Get checked for STIs
  • Avoid injury due to trauma, chemical and environmental pollutants
  • Practice safe sex

1. Avoid substance abuse

Cigarette and marijuana smoking decreases sperm count and motility in males and raises the likelihood of defective sperm in the resulting offspring. Smoking also damages the cells in the testicles that generate testosterone. The use of anabolic steroids decreases fertility by increasing the synthesis of reproductive hormones. The ability of sperm to enter the cervical mucus is hindered by the use of cocaine. The risk of miscarriage and the likelihood of becoming pregnant are both reduced when a woman smokes. Additionally, women who smoke are more likely to enter menopause sooner than nonsmokers. Women's ovarian function may be harmed by excessive alcohol use, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles, loss of ovulation, and even the cessation of menstruation. Miscarriage risks are also increased in women who drink moderately throughout their pregnancies.

2. Maintain healthy weight

Maintaining a healthy weight will aid in the preservation of fertility. Having a lot of fat around your midsection might mess with your hormones and slow down your metabolism. Obese women are more likely to have irregular ovulation and miscarriage. Infertility is a common problem among women who are over- or under-weight. Men who engage in moderate exercise are more likely to produce sperm, whereas those who engage in long-distance running are less likely to produce sperm.

3.Reduce stress and manage mood

Ovarian function is harmed by depression and high levels of stress hormones. Practising yoga and meditation may help women manage their emotions and stress on a daily basis. Medication and therapy might be helpful for those who are suffering from major mental health issues.

4. Do not postpone pregnancy

With each passing year, a woman's chances of becoming infertile grow. The pair should try to conceive before the age of 35 in order to reduce the chance of infertility. After the age of 35, the ovaries' capacity to produce eggs decreases and fewer healthy eggs are left. The risk of miscarriage also rises with mother's age.

5. Keep your menstrual cycle regulated

Pregnancy is impossible without ovulation. When a woman does not have a period or has an irregular cycle, she is more likely to suffer ovulatory problems. Infertility may be exacerbated by problems with the ovaries. If you want regular menstrual cycles, you may want to look into the possibility of taking medication to help control your cycle.

6. Keep chronic conditions under control

Certain long-term illnesses, such as asthma, hypertension, and diabetes, might have a negative impact on a woman's ability to get pregnant. The odds of conceiving rise when certain disorders are controlled. Keep up with your doctor's appointments and follow your drug regimen.

7. Get checked for STIs

Pregnancy may be negatively impacted by STIs. Preconception STI testing and treatment are highly recommended. A variety of illnesses, including pelvic inflammatory disease, gonorrhoea, and syphilis may cause infertility in women. The reproductive organs and tissues might be scarred or damaged as a result of STIs.

8. Avoid injury due to trauma, chemical and environmental pollutants

Man-infertility causing substances include dioxins, organochlorine insecticides, and vinclozolin, all of which affect male hormones. The testicles are very readily harmed in fights, sports, and accidents. Less blood flow to the testes destroys sperm-producing cells. Tight underwear and garments lower scrotum warmth and sperm production. Long-term cycling produces groin neurologic and circulatory damage, affecting penile function and fertility.

Excessive mercury levels in seafood may trigger miscarriage in women. Avoid mackerel, and swordfish, and eat tuna, salmon, and shrimp instead.

9. Practice safe sex

STDs like gonorrhoea and chlamydia are frequent causes of infertility. These infections may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which irreversibly affects female reproductive organs. STDs may also harm men's sperm. Regular STD testing can reduce difficulties. Always use condoms and dental dams to protect yourself and your partner during sex.

In India, infertility affects around 10%-15% of married couples. Out of 30 million infertile couples in India, nearly 3 million are actively seeking treatment. The rate is even higher in the urban population where one-sixth couples suffer from infertility and desperately look for solutions. Continued research into the causes of infertility and any consequences of infertility therapy is crucial. More importantly, people should recognize the signs of infertility and take steps to overcome it.