Obesity infertility is a topic that many couples don’t talk about but it plays a very important role in reproductive health. If someone is overweight or obese then it can affect their hormones, ovulation, sperm quality, and overall chances of getting pregnant. This can be confusing especially when you’re trying to get pregnant and don’t know why it’s not happening.
At RISAA IVF, Dr Rita Bakshi, Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist has over 35 years of experience and she has helped many couples who are facing fertility issues related to weight. This blog will cover everything about how obesity affects fertility and more in a clear and simple way.
What is Obesity and How is it Measured?
Obesity means when someone has too much body fat that can affect your health. It is different from just being a little overweight. When someone is obese then their body stores extra fat and this can put pressure on many organs and affect how the body works including fertility.
The most common way to measure obesity is by using BMI (Body Mass Index). BMI is a number based on your height and weight. If your BMI is:
- Below 18.5 – You are underweight
- 18.5 to 24.9 – Healthy weight
- 25 to 29.9 – Overweight
- 30 or above – Obese
How Obesity Affects Female Fertility?
Obesity infertility in women is often caused by hormone imbalances and irregular ovulation. This extra body fat can disturb the natural cycle and make it difficult to get pregnant. It may also lead to pregnancy complications later on.
Here’s how obesity can affect female fertility:
- Hormones get out of balance
- Ovulation may become irregular or stop
- Higher risk of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Poor egg quality in some cases
- Uterine lining may not support embryo implantation
- Increases chances of miscarriage or complications
How Obesity Affects Male Fertility?
Being overweight can also affect a man’s ability to have children. Obesity can lead to hormonal changes and other health issues that lower sperm quality and reduce fertility. In many cases, losing even a small amount of weight can help to improve male fertility over time.
Here’s how obesity can affect male fertility:
- Lowers testosterone levels
- Increases estrogen levels in men
- Reduces sperm count
- Affects sperm movement (motility)
- Raises chances of sperm DNA damage
- Increases risk of erectile problems
Common Fertility Problems Linked to Obesity
Obesity infertility is not caused by just one issue but it can lead to several fertility problems in men and women. When the body has too much fat then it can affect hormones, reproductive organs, and even the quality of eggs or sperm. This makes it difficult for couples to get pregnant naturally.
Here are some common fertility problems which are linked to obesity include:
- Missed or irregular periods
- No ovulation or weak ovulation
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women
- Poor egg quality
- Low sperm count and motility in men
- Hormonal imbalance in men and women
- Increased risk of miscarriage
Obesity and IVF Success Rates
Obesity and IVF success rates are closely connected. Being overweight can make IVF treatment less effective because it may affect how your body responds to fertility medicines and reduce the chances of embryo implantation. Women with obesity often require higher doses of hormones, and their egg quality may also be lower.
Because of these challenges, the IVF success rate in women with obesity is usually around 20–25%, compared to 40–45% in women with a healthy weight. Obesity infertility can be managed with lifestyle changes, and even a small weight loss before IVF can improve the chances of success.
Healthy Weight and Fertility: What’s the Link?
Fertility plays an important role to maintain a healthy weight. When your weight is within a normal range then your body’s hormones stay balanced and your chances of regular ovulation and healthy sperm production are higher. On the other hand, being overweight or underweight can affect hormone levels and can also affect the chances of getting pregnant.
Obesity infertility is a common concern because excess body fat can cause problems like irregular periods, poor egg or sperm quality, and higher chances of miscarriage. Similarly, underweight fertility problems may include missed periods, low estrogen levels, or poor egg development. Both weight extremes can make it difficult to conceive. That’s why maintaining a healthy weight can improve natural fertility and the chances of success with infertility treatments like IVF.
How to Improve Fertility with Weight Loss?
Weight loss can make a big difference for couples who are dealing with obesity infertility. Your body starts to balance hormones better when you reduce extra body fat. For women, this can mean more regular periods and improved ovulation. For men, it can lead to better sperm count and quality.
Here are some simple ways to improve fertility through weight loss:
- Eat fresh, home-cooked meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Avoid junk food, sugary drinks, and deep-fried items
- Walk or exercise daily for at least 30 minutes
- Drink plenty of water and get enough sleep
- Talk to an infertility specialist (Like Dr Rita Bakshi) or nutritionist for a healthy weight loss plan
Final Words
Obesity infertility is a growing concern for many couples who are trying to conceive. Being overweight or underweight can affect natural body functions, hormone levels, and make it difficult to get pregnant. However, there are some small lifestyle changes like eating healthy, staying active, and managing weight that can improve fertility in men and women.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist) has helped many couples struggling with weight-related fertility issues. With the right support and treatment, pregnancy is still possible. If you have questions or need help, feel free to reach out. Call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or email at doctor@risaaivf.com for expert guidance.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can obesity really cause infertility?
Yes, obesity can affect hormone levels, ovulation, and egg/sperm quality, making it harder to conceive naturally.
Does being underweight also affect fertility?
Yes, underweight fertility problems include irregular periods or no ovulation, which can reduce the chances of pregnancy.
Can losing weight improve my chances of getting pregnant?
Yes, even losing 5–10% of your body weight can help regulate hormones and improve fertility in both men and women.
Is IVF successful for overweight women?
IVF can still work, but success rates may be lower in women with obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight may improve outcomes.