Infertility affects millions of people worldwide, and understanding its risk factors can empower individuals to take steps that protect their reproductive health. Certain health conditions and lifestyle choices significantly increase the chances of having difficulty conceiving.
Here’s a closer look at some common infertility risk factors:
- Obesity
Excess body weight can disrupt hormonal balance, interfere with ovulation, and reduce egg quality, leading to decreased fertility. - Irregular Periods
Irregular menstrual cycles often signal ovulation problems, making it harder to predict fertile windows and conceive naturally. - History of Cancer
Previous cancer diagnoses and treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation can damage reproductive organs or affect hormone levels, impacting fertility. - Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Untreated STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, scarring fallopian tubes and increasing infertility risk. - Age Above 35
Fertility gradually declines with age, especially after 35, due to reduced egg quality and quantity. - Smoking and Regular Alcohol Consumption
Both smoking and excessive drinking harm reproductive health by affecting egg and sperm quality and disrupting hormonal systems.
Conclusion
Awareness of these risk factors is crucial for early intervention and lifestyle adjustments that may preserve fertility. Regular medical checkups, adopting healthier habits, and seeking timely fertility evaluation can significantly improve the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.