Last month, a respected European reproductive medical journal called Human Reproduction published a study that links a woman’s obesity to fertility issues. While other studies have shown a correlation between obesity and fertility issues, this study is the first to link obesity to causing issues with pregnancy when the woman is “subfertile” but ovulating normally.
According to the study, obesity can reduce the odds of conception by 4%, and very obese women were 26 to 43% less likely to conceive than women who were not obese. See Obesity Reduces Chances Of Spontaneous Pregnancy In Women Who Are Subfertile But Ovulating Normally for more on this study.
For those of you who already struggle with your weight, I am sure this comes as a huge blow. I used to struggle with an eating disorder (binge and compulsive overeating), so I am all too familiar with weight issues. About the last thing I needed was more pressure on myself to lose weight when I was facing my fertility challenges.
Nevertheless, I think that women who are struggling with their fertility need to know about any possible contributing factors, and it does appear that obesity is one of them. Until you are aware of a contributing factor, you will not be in a position to change it.
If you suspect that your weight could be contributing to your fertility issues, then talk with your doctor about it. Your doctor can give you some pointers in taking control over your weight. I found that I was best able to control my weight by taking walks with friends. I also like to step up and down on a step stool while I watch my favorite television programs. Even reducing your weight by a small amount could make a difference in your ability to conceive. It will also help you feel better about yourself.
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Photo credit: Lynda Bernhardt
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