Infertility is when a couple is unable to conceive despite having regular sexual intercourse without contraception for a period of 1 year. The causes of infertility can arise from both the male and female partners.
- Physical health, various underlying diseases
- Mental health, stress
- Use of drugs or substances
Regarding physical health, obesity is another factor that causes infertility. Obesity itself has pathologies that directly affect the levels of male and female sex hormones. In males, obesity affects the production of healthy and sufficient sperm. In females, obesity directly affects the function of the ovaries, ovulation process, polycystic ovary disease, and the thickening of the endometrium suitable for pregnancy.
Obesity increases the risk of gestational diabetes, miscarriage, thrombosis, abnormal fetal weight, preterm birth, and preeclampsia. Additionally, obese patients often have other comorbidities including chronic non-communicable diseases, diabetes, insulin resistance, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and certain psychiatric disorders, all of which directly affect infertility and impact pregnancy management and the risks associated with pregnancy and delivery.
Current obesity treatments include dietary control, appropriate exercise, medication as medically indicated, or even weight loss surgery. It is recommended to consult a doctor to consider the appropriate treatment approach for each patient.
