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Introduction
Fertility challenges are increasingly common among today’s couples, and one of the most underestimated factors contributing to this rise is an unhealthy lifestyle. Fertility is not just a matter of reproductive organs, it is deeply influenced by our daily habits, stress levels, diet, and overall physical health.
At Momstory by Sahyadri Hospitals, one of the most trusted IVF centers in Pune, Dr. Supriya Puranik, a leading fertility specialist in Pune, emphasizes that addressing lifestyle issues is often the first step toward successful conception, whether naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF.
How an Unhealthy Lifestyle Can Impact Fertility – Insights from a Leading IVF Hospital in Pune
- Obesity and Fertility: The Weight of the Issue
One of the most significant lifestyle factors affecting fertility is obesity. Excess weight disrupts hormonal balance in both men and women. In women, it can lead to irregular periods, anovulation (absence of ovulation), and conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). In men, it can reduce testosterone levels, sperm count, and motility.
At Momstory, a leading IVF hospital in Pune, Dr. Supriya Puranik and her team often work with patients on preconception weight management plans to improve IVF success rates. Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight can positively impact fertility.
- Sedentary Lifestyle and Lack of Exercise
Spending hours sitting, whether at a desk job or in front of screens, can have long-term negative effects on fertility. Lack of physical activity can contribute to insulin resistance, poor blood circulation, and weight gain, all of which reduce fertility potential.
In men, a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to reduced sperm quality. In women, it may interfere with ovulation and overall reproductive health. Incorporating moderate physical activity such as walking, yoga, or swimming into your daily routine can significantly improve fertility outcomes.
- Diet and Nutritional Deficiencies
A diet high in processed foods, trans fats, and sugary beverages is a major cause of hormonal imbalances. Fertility requires proper levels of essential nutrients like folic acid, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and iron.
Dr. Supriya Puranik advises couples seeking fertility treatment in Pune to adopt a fertility-friendly diet that includes:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains and lean proteins
- Healthy fats like nuts and seeds
- Hydration through adequate water intake
Such a diet not only improves natural fertility but also prepares the body for IVF procedures.
- Smoking, Alcohol, and Substance Abuse
Lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol consumption are known to significantly impair reproductive function. In women, smoking affects egg quality and increases the risk of miscarriage. In men, it lowers sperm quality, DNA integrity, and testosterone levels.
Alcohol and recreational drugs can disrupt the hormonal balance needed for ovulation and sperm production. For couples planning to conceive, or already undergoing treatment at an IVF center in Pune, quitting these habits is essential for better IVF success rates.
- Stress: The Silent Fertility Blocker
Stress is one of the most overlooked factors affecting fertility. The pressure to conceive, demanding jobs, financial worries, and social expectations can all contribute to chronic stress.
Prolonged stress disrupts the body’s hormonal balance, especially cortisol and adrenaline, which in turn interfere with reproductive hormones. Stress can delay ovulation, reduce libido, and affect sperm production.
At Momstory, patients are offered holistic support, including counseling and stress management, as part of their fertility care. According to Dr. Supriya Puranik, one of the best IVF specialist doctors in Pune, addressing emotional well-being is just as important as physical health in any fertility journey.
6. Poor Sleep Habits
Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance. Poor sleep patterns or insomnia can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which affect the production of reproductive hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Couples undergoing fertility treatment in Pune are often advised to follow consistent sleep routines, aiming for 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night. A well-rested body is better equipped to handle the demands of conception and pregnancy.
7. Digital Exposure and Environmental Factors
Excessive exposure to mobile phones, laptops, and other electronic devices can affect sperm quality due to radiation and heat. Additionally, prolonged use of plastic containers, pesticides, and pollution may introduce endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that affect hormone regulation.
While complete avoidance is difficult, couples can minimize exposure by using glass containers, consuming organic produce, and keeping devices away from the reproductive organs.
Conclusion
Lifestyle plays a foundational role in determining fertility success. Whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or seeking assistance from an IVF specialist in Pune, making positive lifestyle changes can significantly improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
At Momstory by Sahyadri Hospitals, Dr. Supriya Puranik and her expert team offer a comprehensive approach to fertility. As a reputed IVF center in Pune, they not only provide advanced reproductive treatments but also guide patients through nutrition, mental health, and lifestyle improvements.
If you are planning to start a family, don’t wait until problems arise. Book a consultation with Dr. Supriya Puranik, one of the best IVF specialist doctors in Pune, and take control of your fertility journey, starting with your lifestyle.
