Doctors are expressing concern about the substantial influence of lifestyle decisions on fertility, emphasizing how different elements of contemporary life can impede reproductive health. Daily choices, ranging from dietary habits and smoking to stress management and alcohol intake, can affect one's ability to conceive. Doctors in the UAE emphasize that comprehending and managing these lifestyle factors is crucial for those planning to have a family and for preserving overall reproductive health. They identify stress, obesity, and diet as the primary causes of infertility. Poor dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles leading to overweight or obesity can negatively impact the fertility of both men and women. Dr. Amal Hassan Abdelaziz, head of obstetrics and gynecology at Thumbay University Hospital-Ajman, explains that overweight women may experience irregular menstrual periods and ovulation, while overweight men may have reduced sperm count and quality. Additionally, delaying pregnancy due to career-focused lives can significantly impact fertility by accelerating age-related declines in reproductive function. Both men and women experience a decrease in fertility with age: women see a decline in egg quality and quantity after 35, and men see a decline in sperm quality and quantity. Other factors affecting fertility include smoking, alcohol, stress, and weight. Smoking harms fertility in both sexes by damaging eggs, sperm, and reproductive organs, while excessive alcohol consumption can also negatively affect fertility. Dr. Deepa Rajan, a specialist in laparoscopic gyneecology and obstetrics at Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, advises that physical activities should be done in moderation, as both too little and too much exercise can impact fertility. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial for reproductive health, with women needing nutrients to regulate hormones and grow eggs, and men needing minerals like zinc, selenium, and vitamins C and E for healthy sperm. Fertility screenings are recommended for those under 35 to try conceiving naturally for about a year before testing, while those over 35 should consider testing after six months. Regular gynecological exams for women and semen analysis for men are advised to monitor fertility.
Text: Lara Palmer
19.06.2024
Understanding the Role of Diet, Stress, and Lifestyle in Reproductive Health