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Increasing awareness towards fitness

Nowadays, awareness among people towards fitness has increased. Many people are participating in rigorous exercise programs like marathons, high-intensity workouts, CrossFit and training in the gym for hours. Regular exercise is beneficial for health and fertility, but when training exceeds the body’s tolerance, it can have a negative impact on the fertility of men and women. This topic was discussed with Dr. Kanchi Khurana, gynecologist and fertility expert of Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chandigarh.

impact on women

Excessive exercise in women can cause lack of energy. When the body does not get the required calories, it reduces the production of hormones to reproduction. This can cause menstruation to become irregular or stop completely, which is called amenorrhea. In this condition, ovulation is affected, which can lead to difficulty in conceiving.

effect on men

In men, excessive and continuous strenuous exercise can reduce testosterone levels. This may affect sperm count, quality and mobility. Long-term extreme endurance sports, such as ultra-marathons or cycling, may temporarily affect fertility in some men.

Fertility myths and facts

Myth 1: The more exercise, the better the fertility. fact: Balanced exercise improves fertility, but excessive training can have the opposite effect.

Myth 2: Only women’s fertility is affected. fact: In men, excessive training can also affect hormone balance and sperm quality.

Myth 3: Athletes never face infertility. fact: Reproductive problems due to overtraining, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalance can also be seen in professional athletes.

Myth 4: Fit body always means healthy fertility. fact: Even a person who looks fit externally may face hormonal imbalance or fertility challenges.

problems faced by women

Menstruation may become irregular.

Ovulation may be affected.

In some cases, periods may also stop.

Chances of pregnancy may be reduced.

problems faced by men

Testosterone levels may decrease.

Sperm count and quality may be affected.

Excessive fatigue and stress can temporarily reduce fertility.

Ways to improve fertility

Do 150–300 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a week.

Take adequate calories and nutrition as per the body’s needs.

Include foods rich in protein, iron, folic acid, zinc and omega-3.

Get enough sleep (7–9 hours).

To control stress, resort to yoga, meditation or relaxation techniques.

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.

If periods become irregular or you are having trouble conceiving, consult a fertility specialist.

conclusion

Exercise is essential to stay fit, but it is important to understand that more is not always better. Balanced exercise, proper nutrition and adequate rest are most important for fertility.