06
Jan
2011
Gynaecologist and Infertility Specialist Dr Faram Irani, says that while most types of infertility cannot be prevented, there are a few ways in which fertility can be improved. Overweight or underweight women experience a higher risk of ovulation disorders. “Weight loss should be gradual and accompanied by a balanced diet and moderate exercise. Women following fad diets and doing strenuous activity, have decreased ovulation and increased menstrual disturbances. In men, strenuous exercise leads to a decrease in the sperm count due to an increase in the testicular temperature, impairing sperm production. Since consumption of too much tea or coffee in a day can affect bodily functions, it is also associated with an increased risk of miscarriages. Drugs like cocaine and marijuana have been linked to irreparable damage and infertility in both sexes. In India, Tuberculosis is a major cause of infertility, as it destroys the reproductive tract in both sexes if not treated early,” says Dr Irani.
Repeated abortions or undergoing unsafe abortion leads to a higher risk of infertility, as it can cause scarring of the uterine cavity or tubal blockage. Pesticides, lead, heavy metals, toxic chemicals and ionising radiations reduce fertility in both sexes.
Infertility Expert Dr Hrishikesh Pai says that knowing what compromises one’s fertility and devising ways to avoid potential hazards is the best way to prevent it. “Smoking has been linked to low sperm counts and sluggish sperm movement in men, and an increase in miscarriage in women. Alcohol (especially binge drinking or chronic abuse), affects the fertility of both men and women trying to conceive either naturally or through infertility treatments. Alcohol reduces sperm counts, can interfere with sexual performance, disrupt hormone balances and increase the risk of miscarriage.”
Moderate amount of exercise helps make a large difference in one’s probability of becoming fertile. Avoiding excessive weight gain is one of the best ways to prevent infertility. Early diagnosis of conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis and cervical cancer may prevent infertility. Detection and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases helps safeguard one’s fertility.
Gynaecologist Dr Suman Bijlani says that a woman’s fertility goes down steadily with age, more so after 35. “It is better not to delay pregnancy. Safe sexual practices, having one sexual partner and promptly treating sexually transmitted infections are very important. Couples are increasingly reporting reduced sexual frequency and interest, which is impacting fertility negatively. Stress can throw hormones off-balance and upset ovulation. PCOS, diabetes and high blood pressure, all of which are related to obesity, and which impact pregnancy and its outcome, are unfortunately, on the rise,” says Dr Bijlani.
Boost your daily intake of natural antioxidants through simple dietary modifications.
- Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, which improves egg quality by preventing egg damage during the process of maturation. Dietary sources include nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, cereal brans such as wheat, oat or rice bran and vegetable oils.
- Vitamin C has been shown to better fertility in women with poor ‘luteal phase’, and improve chances of implantation of the egg in the uterus. Citrus fruits, strawberries, guavas, kiwi and vegges such as tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, vegetable greens and bell peppers are rich sources of this vitamin.
- Folic acid is an important prenatal vitamin — it prevents the incidence of birth defects in the fetus and is essential to produce genetic material in every cell of our body. Other essential micronutrients such as selenium, zinc and essential fatty acids play a role in various stages of conception. An ideal fertility diet should contain green leafy vegetables, coloured vegges, fruits, sprouts, nuts and seeds, beans, vegetable oils, dairy products, whole grains, fish and lean meat. Foods consumed in their natural raw state give maximum benefit — over-cooking destroys vital nutrients.
Tips for couples undergoing infertility treatment
Choose a specialist you trust and stay with them for at least six months. Ask questions — understand fertility testing and the treatment process. Work as a team; be communicative and supportive of your partner. Follow instructions completely and make adjustments at work and at home for the rigors of the treatment. Be patient and set realistic expectations. Accept facts and resort to assisted reproduction before it is too late. Seek the help of professional counsellor if stress levels are too high.
Source: Bombay Times
