8 Common Factors that Affect a Woman’s Fertility

Lisa Franchi June 04, 2015

It is a fact that a woman’s fertility decreases with age. But even in her most fertile years, there are different lifestyle and environmental factors that affect a woman’s likelihood of having a baby.

Smoking

Topping the list is smoking. Not only does it prevent conception, but smoking also harms a developing foetus. A more disturbing finding of a 2014 study reported in the Human Reproduction journal suggests that maternal smoking may even affect the fertility of the mother’s son. Smoking and exposure to cigarette smoke disrupts hormonal function and damages the DNA in both men and women, thus, having a huge impact on fertility.

Caffeine

Too much latte can also have an impact on fertility. In 2001, researchers from Nevada School of Medicine found that caffeine affects fertility by interfering with the muscle contractions that help eggs travel from the ovaries and through the fallopian tubes to the womb. Meanwhile, a 2012 study by Danish scientists found that drinking five or more cups of coffee a day may cut a woman’s chances of successful in vitro fertilisation by half.

Obesity

Being overweight affects hormone production and makes it difficult for a woman to get pregnant. In a 2009 study published in the Fertility and Sterility Journal, it was found that women who were obese at the age of 18 were more likely to develop polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – the most common hormonal disorder in women and leading cause of infertility. Similarly, being too thin has a negative consequence on fertility. A 2009 study by Harvard University found that deficiency in leptin – the hormone that controls hunger and feelings of satiety – contributes to the absence of menstrual periods. Maintaining a healthy body weight is essential for women planning to conceive. Following a healthy diet and moderate exercise is one of the best ways to address issues on weight.

Exposure to Household Chemicals

A 2013 study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that exposure to pollutants, pesticides, and industrial compounds can decrease a couple’s ability to have children by up to 29 per cent. Another study by Washington University, published this year, identified 15 common chemicals were associated with early menopause, some of which are often found in personal care items and beauty products like perfumes and nail polishes.

Alcohol

Drinking more than the recommended limits of alcohol can cause ovulation disorder, which is critical to pregnancy. A 2004 study by Swedish researchers found that the heaviest drinkers were more likely to have sought out fertility treatment. Furthermore, drinking during the early stages of pregnancy has been linked to premature births.

Thyroid Disease

Research shown in the Obstetrician & Gynaecologist journal gives proof to the long-suspected theory that thyroid disorders can contribute to ovulation and pregnancy problems, and recommends that women having trouble conceiving be tested for over- or underactive thyroid. While people who have chronic thyroid problems will experience obvious symptoms, undiagnosed hypothyroidism can have subtle effects on fertility as well.

Extreme Workouts

Working out makes a woman stronger and healthier, and prepares her for a safe and healthy pregnancy. But too much of a good thing can be harmful too. Too much working out does have an impact on ovulation. According to a 2012 study published in the Fertility and Sterility journal, normal-weight women who exercised vigorously for more than five hours a week had a harder time getting pregnant. The most obvious sign of over exercising is a change in menstrual cycle. If it becomes shorter and lighter, talk to your doctor about its implications on your health and fertility.

Medical Condition

Certain medical conditions can also reduce the chance of conception. For instance, women with autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may have trouble conceiving because their body may reject a fertilised egg or attack sperms coming in. working with a specialist to manage and treat such medical problems can promote fertility, and healthy and safe fertility.

Stress

Last but not the least is stress. Most women, especially working ones, would complain about day-to-day stress. According to a research published in Human Reproduction journal, women with higher levels of an enzyme linked to stress experience problems getting pregnant.

Whilst some factors are beyond your control, most of them are. By adapting a healthy lifestyle and keeping your general health in check, you can greatly increase your chances of becoming a mum sooner!