How Weight Affects Fertility
Weight is a hard thing to talk about, especially when it comes to fertility. Ultimately, I believe that all people should be free to be confident, happy, and proud of their bodies, no matter what the shape. We are constantly bombarded with messages and images that critique our body image. I don't body shame as a doctor (that's the worst).
So let's get real. Studies show that both high and low body fat negatively impact fertility, so even though it’s not fun, we have to talk about it if you're trying to get pregnant.
Obesity can increase miscarriage rates, increase the rates of pre-term birth, decrease natural fertility, and lower success rates of IVF. Increased fat stores can lead to major hormone disruption. If you are struggling with “unexplained infertility”, hormone imbalance can be major cause.
Extra fat can increase estrogen production in both men and women. For men, high estrogen is linked to low testosterone. This can lead to low sperm count, decreased healthy sperm movements, and a change in sperm shape. For women, high estrogen can lead to low progesterone, which can negatively impact ovulation or lead to early miscarriage.
Low Body Fat
Some people just can't keep the weight on. Just like when people feel like they can never lose the weight, this could be a red flag that there's an underlying health issue that you need to address with a hormone expert. Low body fat can cause anovulatory cycles; decreased fat stores and low fat intake are a problem because fats are the building blocks of hormones.
Why Can’t I Lose the Weight?!
Do you feel like you’re doing everything right, and the weight is still not coming off?
Stress majorly affects our body’s ability to let go of extra weight! Cortisol, the stress hormone, causes the body to hold on to fat cells and slows weight loss, and can lead to more belly fat. Stress hormones can also affect the signaling of estrogen and progesterone, which in turn can affect ovulation and implantation.
Fat cells help our body store toxins. This is a beneficial mechanism because it gets toxins out of the bloodstream and stores them where they aren’t as harmful. When you lose weight quickly through an extremely low-calorie diet, exercise bulimia, or prolonged fasting, these toxic fat cells release their toxins and stored estrogen. This can affect your cycle and fertility.
This is why I recommend slow, steady lifestyle changes that increase muscle mass, increase resting metabolism, and lead to sustainable fat and weight loss. This is a low-stress approach that allows cortisol to normalize!
When you implement these simple shifts in lifestyle, you should see your weight find its new normal, whether it be higher or lower. The body is wise, and generally finds the right landing place. It can take time, so the kinder you are to yourself, the more success you'll have. Enjoy your beautiful body and enjoy delicious, nutritious food!
If you're interested in learning more about a natural approach to pregnancy and fertility, please book a free intro session with Dr. Fanning!
Meet Your Doctor
Hi, I’m Dr. Caitlin Fanning!
I help women who are struggling with hormone imbalances, fatigue, and infertility optimize their hormones and get their life back so they can feel like their best self.
If you're ready to take charge of your health and make real, lasting changes to your energy, your hormones, or your overall well-being, I would love to talk more!