WAYS TO DECREASE THE RISK OF INFERTILITY

Avoid Substance Abuse

For men, smoking cigarettes and marijuana reduces sperm count and motility, and also increases the risk for abnormal sperm. In addition, smoking affects cells in the testes that produce testosterone. Anabolic steroids will increase production of certain reproductive hormones and reduce fertility. Cocaine will interfere with sperm ability to penetrate the cervical mucus.

For women, smoking increases the risk of miscarriage and decreases pregnancy chances. In addition, smokers tend to go through menopause earlier than women who do not smoke. Heavy drinking will negatively affect ovarian function in women, leading to loss of ovulation, irregular menstrual cycles, and cessation of menstruation. In addition, moderate drinking is associated with higher risk for miscarriage.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Having a normal body weight will help maintain fertility. High body fat affects hormone balance and metabolism. Women who are overweight often have problems with ovulation and frequent miscarriage. Consequently, underweight women struggle with fertility also. Moderate exercise increases sperm production for men, but excessive exercise, as with long-distance running, will reduce sperm production.

Avoid Injury Related to Trauma, Environmental Pollutants, and Chemical Contaminants

Numerous chemicals have been linked to male infertility. These include dioxins, organochlorine pesticides, and vinclozolin, which are all thought to disrupt male hormone function. In addition, the testicles are easily damaged during fights, sporting activities, and accidents. Injuries may reduce blood supply to the testes, which damages sperm-producing cells. Underwear and clothing that is constricting or tight will alter scrotum temperature and reduce sperm production. Also, prolonged bicycle riding causes neurologic and circulatory damage in the groin, which affects erectile function and fertility.

For women, scientists report that high levels of mercury in fish can cause miscarriage. To protect against this issue, avoid eating too much shark, mackerel, and swordfish and eat tuna, salmon and shrimp.

Manage Stress and Mood

Depression and elevated levels of stress hormones affect ovarian function. Women should attempt to manage mood and stress through regular exercise, hobbies, yoga, and meditation. For people with serious mental health concerns, medications and counseling may help.

Don’t Delay

Regardless of a woman’s unique situation, her infertility risks increase with age. To decrease risk of infertility, the couple should attempt conception before age 35 years. Fewer healthy eggs remain after age 35, and the ovaries’ ability to develop eggs declines. In addition, the risk of miscarriage increases with maternal age.

Regulate your Menstrual Cycles

Ovulation is necessary for pregnancy. Women who do not have a period, or those who have irregular cycles, often have ovulatory disorders. Ovulatory disorders can contribute to infertility. For normal menstrual periods, consider taking medications to regulate this.

Control Chronic Medical Conditions

Certain chronic conditions can affect fertility, such as asthma, high blood pressure, and diabetes. By controlling these diseases, chances of fertility increase. Take medications as prescribed and see the healthcare provider regularly.

Get Tested for STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can affect fertility. Before attempting conception, get tested and treated for STIs. Various infections can lead to infertility females, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, gonorrhea, syphilis, and gonorrhea. STIs can scar or damage the reproductive organs and structures.