Does Exercise Cause Infertility In Women?

"Hi ifu,

pls, i really want to loss my baby weight through exercise but my husband is against it  saying that it would affect my chances of conceiving.

i did exercise after my 1st child and it took me a long time to conceive.

pls does exercise affect conception"

A woman sent me the above message few days ago, I've since replied her, but  I did further research and here's something you should read. 

According to a Danish report, exercises have different effects on women, depending on their BMI (body mass index). Strenuous exercises can cause infertility in women with normal or low BMI, but in obesed women who are trying to lose weight, exercises can improve their chance of conceiving.

Exercise and Overweight

According to a study carried out by the University of Maryland Medical Center, being overweight has a negative impact on a woman's fertility as high insulin levels associated with excess weight may cause the ovary to produce too much male hormones and stop releasing eggs. Obesity causes a hormonal imbalance that may impair fertility by disrupting ovulation. However the combination of exercise and the right diet can correct this and promote ovulation and fertility.

Excessive Exercises

For women with low BMI, vigorous exercises can impact negatively on fertility. Getting too much intense cardio for long hours or aerobics can disrupt ovulation cycles. According to health experts, women with low BMI may experience difficulties conceiving. If your BMI is less that 19 and your menstrual cycle is disrupted often, these are signs that your exercise habits may be hindering your fertility.

Normal Exercises

Exercises are good for overall good health and wellness in everyone. According to health experts women who spend 30mins exercising, avoid strenuous exercises and maintain a healthy lifestyle have reduced chances of infertility. Women with low BMI and obesed women who want to conceive, should consult their physician to recommend an appropriate exercise program and a meal plan.

Other causes of infertility in women include, stress, smoking cigarettes, heavy drinking, excessive consumption of caffeine, sexually transmitted diseases and living an unhealthy lifestyle. 

Source: Care2.com

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