How to Naturally Increase Fertility
You are making great efforts to become pregnant, it makes sense that you want to do everything in your power to improve your chances. When it comes to lifestyle changes, there are some steps you can take that are scientifically proven to affect fertility. There are many, many more that are commonly believed and practiced. The fact is, infertility prevention via lifestyle changes simply has not been studied in enough depth to provide conclusive proof for many practices.
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Weight: Proven
This is one of three lifestyle areas that has solid scientific proof of its effect on fertility. Weight -– either weighing too much or weighing too little -– can affect hormonal balances, adversely affecting your fertility. Hormonal imbalances can be treated by medications, but a weight-management program is the best overall option. Feel free to ask your physician or nurse next time you visit us.
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Exercise: Proven
Another area with conclusive proof of its effect on fertility: exercise. Again, exercising too much or not enough can have an adverse effect on your hormonal balance and cause fertility issues. Medications can help with this, but changing your lifestyle to incorporate a moderate amount of exercise is preferred.
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Smoking: Proven
Not surprisingly, smoking has been proven to have a detrimental effect on fertility. Doctors have known for years that smoking can decrease your chance of getting pregnant by 50 percent and also increase your chance of having a miscarriage. (Fertility & Sterility, 2008) Quitting smoking now is the best choice for your overall health.
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Caffeine and Alcohol: Not Proven but Good to Avoid
Caffeine and alcohol are substances whose use has not been conclusively proven to hamper fertility. However, we do encourage women to avoid them after pregnancy, and believe that limiting your consumption can have a positive effect on your overall health.
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Stress: Not Proven but Good to Avoid
Many couples who have been trying to become pregnant have been told by well-meaning friends and family to “relax, you’re trying too hard.” Recent studies have not been able to make a clear, conclusive connection between stress and infertility. However, it is always a good idea to reduce stress for your overall physical and emotional well-being.