Does weight affect fertility | Dr Rama Sofat Hospital

Does weight affect fertility | Dr Rama Sofat Hospital

Over-weight Man 

Being over or under weight can affect both male and female fertility.

Being overweight or underweight causes problems with ovulation in women, and maternal obesity can increase the rate of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and birth defects.

Dr Rama Sofat explains that however, the effect of paternal (male) weight on fertility and birth outcomes has only recently been understood. Evidence is growing that paternal weight can play just as serious a part as maternal weight in fertility rates and fetal development. 

The facts about men, weight and fertility

Dr Rama Sofat explains that overweight and obese men have worse sperm quality than men of healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can also cause hormonal changes that reduce fertility and make men less interested in sex. Men who are overweight are also more likely to have problems getting an erection. Together, these factors reduce the chances of men who are overweight or obese fathering a child.

What are some other causes of male infertility

Alcohol is one of the main causes of male infertility

Besides weight, other male infertility causes can include: varicoceles (swollen veins), infections of the reproductive tract, ejaculation issues, cancer, hormone imbalances, medications, physical defects of the reproductive organs, medical conditions like celiac disease, exposure to toxins like X-rays, lead, or industrial chemicals, drug or alcohol use, or stress.

Dr Rama Sofat  provides details that there are tests available to help evaluate male fertility. If you are struggling to conceive, talk with your doctor.

How do weight training and exercise affect male fertility?

Dr Rama Sofat provides information that there is some evidence that excessive exercise could be potentially damaging to male fertility. Too much exercise may lower your testosterone, which could negatively impact your ability to conceive. Also, trauma to your testicles or more likely repeated overheating of your testicles, both of which can happen during strenuous exercise, could also reduce or impede male fertility.

If you are concerned about your fertility or are trying to conceive, clear any exercise regime with your doctor first.

                                   Excessive exercise affects male fertility