Gynecologist reveals daily habits to enhance fertility in women

You might be surprised at how factors like age, daily habits, stress levels, sleep patterns, diet, and even bodily conditions can affect fertility. Although not every cause of infertility is preventable, couples can make significant changes to their daily routines to improve their chances. 

Encouragingly, while complex medical procedures are crucial in managing infertility, they are also significantly influenced by healthier choices you start making today. 

In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anshika Lekhi, the Director and Gynaecologist at The Fertilife in Gurgaon, offered advice to enhance female fertility.

1. Maintain an ideal weight

Dr Anshika noted that women who are either too light or too heavy can have hormonal issues leading to ovulation problems. Exercise has numerous fertility advantages. “Improved circulation, reduced stress hormones, and regulated fertility hormones are all helpful for fertility,” Dr Anshika explained. 

She advises engaging in mild activities like walking, swimming, or yoga rather than intense workouts, as strenuous exercise can negatively impact female fertility.

2. The significance of a balanced diet in fertility

A nutritious and balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, and healthy fats can greatly aid fertility. Nutrients such as iron and folic acid are particularly beneficial for reproductive health. 

“Omega-3 fatty acids are excellent for enhancing fertility in both men and women, offering strong antioxidant properties,” said Dr Anshika. Indulging in habits like consuming fast foods, sweets, alcohol, smoking, and excessive caffeine is discouraged for both genders when trying to conceive, as they can negatively affect men's sperm and women's egg quality.

3. Stress: An often overlooked factor in fertility

Too much stress can disrupt reproductive hormones. The pressures from a demanding lifestyle, relationships, and the anxiety of not conceiving can have negative impacts on fertility. 

Practising meditation, mindfulness techniques, seeking support from loved ones, and making time for leisure can help alleviate stress.

4. The critical role of quality sleep in reproductive health

Poor sleep patterns can disrupt hormone production, which can contribute to fertility problems. Adults are generally advised to aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

5. Monitoring the menstrual cycle

Understanding one's menstrual cycle is a way for women to identify their fertile period when trying to conceive. “Irregularities such as heavy periods, severe pain, excessive hair growth, acne, and significant weight fluctuations could indicate underlying health concerns,” Dr Anshika stated to HT Lifestyle.