We have been homebound for a month now. From IVI we hope and want to start resuming activity as soon as possible because, in addition, we consider that many patients cannot wait long to try it, but in the meantime, we want our medical team to explain and help you to pass this period better and especially to return in an optimal state to resume assisted reproduction treatments. Therefore, we have asked dr. José Bellver from IVI Valencia to tell us about weight and fertility and this is what he has told us:
It is well known that the excess of weight bodily, both in men and women, is related to a increased risk of infertility. In the male it alters the seminal quality. In women it is related to alterations in ovulation, in the uterus’ capacity for the embryo to nest, in the quality of the embryo itself and in the correct evolution of the pregnancy.
Of course, all these effects do not generate complete sterility, but they do increase the risk of not conceiving or of taking a long time to conceive, both in Assisted reproduction as natural. Said risk will depend on the degree of excess body weight and the presence or absence of associated diseases such as diabetes, hypertension or other chronic metabolic disorders.
Why do I eat more during confinement?
These days of confinement by the pandemic COVID-19 they lead to a greater sedentary lifestyle and an increased caloric intake. There is a significant reduction in daily activity, not always compensated by physical exercise or in a sufficient proportion. In addition, there is a trend towards an increase in total intake, snacking between meals, the consumption of caloric products and the consumption of alcohol. In order to reduce stress and anxiety generated by the continuous news of the advance of the pandemic and the uncertainty of the future employment and economic situation, and also as strategy to pass the time.
However, we must be aware that maintaining an optimal state of health is essential to better face a possible infection if it affects us and when it comes to recovering our daily routine once the confinement is over. This includes our reproductive health. The caloric increase, the unbalanced diet and the excessive consumption of alcohol can carry, especially in predisposed people, to decrease the fertile capacity of the couple, leading to difficulties in achieving spontaneous pregnancy or worse results in the treatment of Assisted reproduction, such as the artificial insemination wave in vitro fertilization.
Health and fertility
It is now when we have to take care of ourselves the most, to be in the best possible condition when the confinement ends. A balanced diet, with an abundant proportion of fruits and vegetables, and regular physical exercise should be included in our daily routine. Let’s search distractions far from satisfying our gluttony, such as reading, music, movies, family games … and keeping our heads occupied with established daily routines that take us away from the thought of food or alcohol intake as options for psychological relief.
Let’s not forget that the loss of optimal health during these weeks of confinement will be difficult to recover afterwards and, in terms of fertility, excessive body weight can complicate what interests future parents most. That is, the achievement of pregnancy with the least possible delay and its adequate evolution to achieve a healthy son.
There are online platforms of nutritionists and psychologists that can help us achieve this goal. What’s more, all IVI clinics, in the commitment to their patients, have a Emotional Support Unit for all those who need it. Let’s not only think about now, but also about tomorrow, you reap what you sow!let’s sow health! Let’s control our weight! and let’s enhance our fertility!
By Dr. José Bellver
Gynecologist
IVI Valencia
