When it comes to fertility, there are many things we do on a day to day basis that we may not realize are affecting our fertility. It is important to try to get down to the root of the problem so we can stop these habits in their tracks and begin increasing our fertility. Here are a few things to work on:
Stop Staying Up Late
Poor sleep habits have been found in connection to irregular periods, which can be a symptom of infertility. These habits can also lead to weight problems; if you are even slightly over your healthy weight range, you can end up having ovulation problems. Try to figure out why you stay up so late, whether it be that you look at your phone all night, your favorite tv show keeps you hooked, you crave quiet time alone, or you just have way too many things to do. If you are staying up late because you cannot sleep, you may be experiencing insomnia, which can be a sign of depression. Try creating a comforting bedtime routine, or look into counseling to help you get better sleep.
Stop Overdoing It
Regular exercise is good for your health and can help you maintain a healthier weight, which is good for your fertility. However, working out too much can be harmful to your fertility. On the other hand, most people tend to work out too little. You should be exercising at least three times a week for at least 30 minutes each time. Some fertility-healthy exercises can include yoga, swimming, walking, or low-impact aerobics. If you feel as if you must exercise for hours each day and feel anxious about stopping an intense workout routine, talk to your doctor.
Stop Procrastinating
If you are procrastinating on starting a family, you may run into fertility issues. Fertility begins to decline at about age 27 for women, and by age 35, the decline has steepened. Don’t hesitate to get help if you have been trying for more than a year, or more than six months if you are 35 or older. Perhaps you are afraid, or you just really want to get pregnant on your own. Regardless, you should still see a doctor to rule out other health problems.
Stop Overeating
Overeating can lead to becoming overweight, which can then lead to fertility problems. Eating a lot of junk food in a short period of time may lead to a blood sugar spike. It has been theorized that insulin and fertility are connected, so this is not ideal for your fertility. Overeating is often done as a way to find comfort or hold back emotions. Try looking for healthier ways to cope. Take a look at your overall diet too; are you restricting too much or skipping meals? If you get in three healthy meals each day and allow yourself an occasional treat, you will be less likely to overeat.
NCCRM
The North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine/Talbert Fertility Institute is the premiere center for reproductive health in North Carolina and the East Coast. Our team specializes in fertility testing, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility conditions. We’re experts in IVF, Tubal Ligation Reversal, Male Infertility, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Gestation Surrogacy, Family Balancing, and more. Contact us today.
