The Influence Of Diet And Lifestyle On Fertility

November 15, 2023

The Influence Of Diet And Lifestyle On Fertility

Fertility, the natural ability to conceive, is a crucial aspect of human life. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the influence that diet and lifestyle factors have on fertility. Research indicates that various dietary choices and lifestyle habits can significantly impact both male and female fertility.

The Influence Of Diet And Lifestyle On Fertility

The roles diet and lifestyle are increasingly essential in a woman’s reproductive journey. Here at Island Reproductive, we have put together a comprehensive guide on what you need to know about the influence of diet and lifestyle on fertility.

Diet And Fertility

Diet is not only a large contributor to overall health, but it also plays a critical role in fertility. The consumption of a balanced and nutritious diet is associated with improved reproductive outcomes. Key nutrients such as folate, iron, zinc, and vitamins C and D have been linked to fertility enhancement. For women, maintaining a healthy body weight is essential, as extremes on either end of the weight spectrum can disrupt hormonal balance and menstrual regularity.

Weight And Fertility

Excessive weight can lead to insulin resistance, which affects ovulation, while insufficient body fat can lead to anovulation. Obesity is also associated with an increased risk of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can hinder fertility. On the other hand, underweight women might experience disruptions in the menstrual cycle, leading to difficulties in conception.

Lifestyle Choices And Fertility

Beyond diet, lifestyle choices pose a significant influence on fertility. Physical activity plays a role in fertility as both sedentary behavior and excessive exercise can disrupt reproductive function. Striking a balance by engaging in moderate, regular exercise can help regulate hormones and improve overall fertility.

Sleep And Fertility

Sleep, often overlooked in discussions of fertility, is a critical aspect of reproductive health. Irregular sleep patterns and insufficient sleep can disrupt hormonal rhythms, potentially impairing fertility in both men and women. Creating an environment that can contribute to a consistent sleep schedule can positively impact reproductive outcomes.

Environmental Factors And Fertility

Environmental factors also play a role in fertility. According to the National Institutes for Health, Environmental toxins cause infertility in basically 4 ways:

Endocrine disruption
Damage to the female reproductive system
Damage to the male reproductive system
Impaired fetal viability

Additionally, chemicals found in plastics, pesticides, and certain personal care products can interfere with hormones, potentially affecting reproductive function. Minimizing exposure to such chemicals by using natural cleaning and personal care products and opting for glass or stainless steel containers for food and beverages can contribute to improved fertility.

Stress And Fertility

Stress, a feeling that is almost impossible to avoid altogether, can disrupt hormonal signals necessary for ovulation. Mind-body practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing may mitigate the negative effects of stress on fertility. Additionally, through proper management of diet and lifestyle, some feelings of stress should be able to be managed.

Learn More With Island Reproductive Services

The influence of diet and lifestyle on fertility is important for any woman who is looking to begin their fertility journey. The choices individuals make can collectively contribute to their reproductive health. Our team at Island Reproductive Services is here for you through the process. We have resources and information that can help you make decisions. Are you interested in scheduling a consultation with our team? Check out our website or give us a call at (718) 948-6100 for more information.

October 31, 2023

Supporting LGBTQ+ Family Building: Fertility Options And Considerations

In a world that celebrates love in all its forms, LGBTQ+ family building and planning has emerged as a powerful testament to the profound bonds that connect individuals, couples, and families. The journey to parenthood for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples is a unique journey that offers many options and considerations.

LGBTQ+ Family Building

Island Reproductive Services recognizes the diverse reproductive options available to LGBTQ+ individuals. We understand that your path to parenthood involves unique medical and emotional challenges. We are here to offer our guidance and support every step of the way. Continue reading to learn more about LGBTQ+ family building, including donor IUI, IVF, Co-IVF, Gestational Carrier, and Surrogacy (with IUI or IVF).

Donor Insemination (IUI)

Donor insemination involves the use of an anonymous or directed sperm donor. Anonymous donor sperm is purchased from an unknown sperm donor from a licensed sperm bank. Directed donor sperm is obtained from a known male who agrees to allow the use of his sperm without being the legally intended parent. Donor IUI is often used for lesbian couples, cis-gender/trans-couples, or for single women. It may also be used for infertile couples who are unable to conceive due to severe male factors, azoospermia, or when a male carries an abnormal heritable genetic trait.

All certified sperm banks must meet and adhere to federal requirements for donor screening for infectious and sexually transmitted diseases. Many sperm banks screen donors for autosomal recessive genetic traits. Island Reproductive Services is not a licensed sperm bank and cannot provide you with donor sperm, but we can accept donor sperm from any licensed sperm bank for your use.

Co-In Vitro Fertilization (Co-IVF)

Co-in vitro fertilization (Co-IVF) is a fertility treatment that allows both partners in a same-sex female couple to participate in the pregnancy process. Egg sharing in female couples can be used to allow the dual participation of female couples in the pregnancy process. The oocyte donor-partner provides the eggs, and the recipient partner provides the uterine environment for gestation. This allows for a shared experience. In a future treatment, partners may switch roles to allow both partners to eventually participate in each aspect of the process.

Gestational Carrier

A gestational carrier involves using a woman to carry a pregnancy and deliver a baby while using another woman to serve as the egg donor. This is a common treatment for male same-sex couples or a single male looking to build a family. In this treatment, the woman carrying the pregnancy is not genetically linked to the pregnancy. Ideally, a gestational carrier is a non-smoker who has already started or completed her family, is free of medical problems, has an appropriate evaluation of her uterus, and has been screened psychologically. If a gestational carrier is used for a male couple, that couple may choose to use the sperm of one or both partners to help create a family of their genetic choosing.

Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a treatment where the woman carrying the pregnancy is also the source of the egg. Although surrogacy can be achieved through both IUI and IVF, it is more commonly used in conjunction with IVF. Surrogacy, especially when the surrogate is not a known acquaintance or relative of the intended parent(s), presents different medical legal challenges. For this reason, a gestational carrier is often the preferred treatment.

Learn More With Island Reproductive Services

Allow us to be your partners in building the family you’ve always dreamed of. Your path to parenthood is unique, and we’re dedicated to helping you navigate it with care and compassion. Contact the Island Reproductive team today at (718) 948-6100 to learn more about LGBTQ+ family building.