World Health Day invites us to consider all the factors that influence having a child. From our physical health and lifestyle to environment and socioeconomic conditions, every detail counts. Understanding how these aspects combine can make a difference when building a family.
How does physical health affect fertility?
Physical health of both partners is essential to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term. Conditions like obesity (BMI >30 kg/m²), type 2 diabetes, thyroid disorders or STIs can damage eggs and sperm. After age 35, ovarian reserve declines and sperm quality decreases by 1–2 % each year. Avoid self-medication and always seek professional guidance.
Before taking supplements or medications, consult an assisted reproduction specialist. Early and personalized diagnosis increases your chances of success.
How does lifestyle affect your chances of conceiving?
Smoking, consuming more than 14 units of alcohol per week or using illicit drugs can damage the DNA of eggs and sperm. A diet rich in folates, omega-3 and vitamins D and E promotes a healthy uterine environment and sperm quality.
Doing at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly helps balance hormones. Relaxation techniques like yoga or mindfulness also reduce stress and support ovulation and spermatogenesis.
What impact does environment have on your reproductive capacity?
Pollution and exposure to toxins (phthalates, pesticides) can lower sperm count and disrupt ovarian function. Chronic stress raises cortisol, hindering reproductive hormone production.
Improve your surroundings: ensure good ventilation, get enough sleep and minimize household pollutants to protect your fertility.
Why do socioeconomic factors matter in the decision to become a parent?
Having economic stability and access to quality healthcare influences when you decide to have children and how many. Job or social insecurity often delays parenthood or limits family size.
Education and reliable information allow you to plan freely and confidently. Rely on official sources to make informed decisions.
How does mental health affect your fertility?
Anxiety and depression reduce libido and can disrupt the menstrual cycle. Facing fertility challenges without emotional support increases psychological strain.
Seeking psychological support at fertility centers strengthens your resilience and improves treatment adherence.
What advances does assisted reproduction offer today?
Techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and artificial insemination have helped many couples. However, their cost (between 8,000 and 15,000 USD per cycle) and emotional impact require robust support.
Learn more in World Sexual Health Day: A Holistic View of Wellness and Fertility and World Fertility Day: A Date to Inform, Empathize, and Never Lose Hope.
On this World Health Day, let’s commit to habits and environments that nurture our reproductive health. With information, empathy and comprehensive care, we can support you at every step toward parenthood.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What Is the Best Age to Conceive?
The ideal range is usually between 20 and 30 years, when ovarian reserve and egg quality are optimal. After 35, fertility declines and the risk of genetic abnormalities increases.
Every body is unique. An assisted reproduction specialist will help you evaluate hormones like AMH and FSH to plan more safely.
2. How Does Body Weight Affect Fertility?
A BMI below 18.5 or above 30 can disrupt menstrual cycles and sperm quality. Fat tissue produces estrogens that unbalance hormones.
A personalized nutrition plan under medical supervision helps reach a healthy BMI and increases your chances of conceiving.
3. What Diagnostic Tests Are Recommended Before Trying to Get Pregnant?
Ideally, a hormonal profile (FSH, LH, AMH, TSH), a semen analysis and tubal patency studies (hysterosalpingography). These tests identify potential obstacles early.
It’s also advisable to assess ovarian reserve and conduct a general health check—thyroid profile, glucose and liver function—to design a successful reproductive plan.
4. Is Psychological Support Necessary During Assisted Fertility?
Yes. Stress and anxiety can lower implantation rates and affect your well-being. Psychological help improves treatment adherence and provides emotional tools at each stage.
Support groups, individual or couple therapy and relaxation techniques are valuable complements to strengthen your reproductive journey.
Sources
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2020). Practice Committee guidelines. Reproductive Medicine. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.03.028
- MedlinePlus. (2023). Infertility: Overview. https://medlineplus.gov/infertility.html
- World Health Organization. (2021). Reproductive health indicators. https://www.who.int/reproductive-health/
- Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2015). Testing and interpreting semen analysis in infertility evaluation. Fertility and Sterility, 103(3), e18–e25. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.01.016
Remember that every story is unique. For personalized support and answers to your questions, consult an assisted reproduction specialist. You are not alone on this journey!