5 Things That Can Reduce Fertility

The World Health Organization defines infertility as a “disease of the reproductive system defined by the inability to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.” Secondary Infertility, is when someone who had been able to conceive cannot do so again. Various factors such as lifestyle, age, environment and many others can put an individual at risk for infertility. It's estimated that according to WHO estimates in 2010 there were 48 million couples and 186 million individuals suffering from this condition worldwide.

Fertility damaging habits

Here are some habits that can damage your fertility:

1. Drinking:

   Drinking alcohol can seriously harm your mental and physical health and may also decrease fertility levels in men and women. Generally, excessive alcohol consumption will have a direct and indirect effect on fertility..

2. Smoking: You probably know by now that smoking can significantly impact fertility. It can affect reproductive health both in men & women and lead to conditions such as erectile dysfunction, low libido and other problems. . So, it’s pretty important to quit. Men’s fertility is impacted more by smoking than women. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that the prevalence of infertility among male smokers is about 8% higher than for non-smokers.
3. Mismanaged weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can be hard and puts your body at risk for various issues relating to your health. There are different complications that can stem from obesity and being overweight, such as heart disease, weak bones and more. In addition to the obvious risks of these, unhealthy weight can also affect fertility in individuals.
4. Unsafe sex practices: It's important to stay mindful and practice safer sex, especially with newer partners . Unsafe sex practices can put you at risk of sexually transmitted infections & diseases. These can include everything from common treatable infections to more severe and life-long illnesses.
5. Bad sleep hygiene: To function properly, your body needs to rest. Unhealthy sleep habits have been linked with hormonal imbalances, stress, and sexual health issues such as lowered libido that can lead to infertility in men and women.

No tips or suggestions mentioned in the article should be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietician before starting any fitness program or making any changes to your diet.