Weight Loss Interventions for Improving Fertility: a Synthesis of Current Evidence

Overview

Journal Pract Midwife

Specialties Gynecology & Obstetrics
Nursing

Date 2024 Jul 24

PMID 39045425

Authors

Emma Schneider

Oliver Hamer

Chris Smith

James Hill

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Infertility is a widespread issue which is estimated to affect up to 17.5% of the global population. Evidence suggests that the most common causes of female infertility are ovulation disorders (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome). That said, lifestyle factors such as dietary patterns, stress, alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity are key determinants which have been shown to impact female physiology and significantly decrease the chances of conception. Obesity has been widely recognized as a significant factor that negatively impacts ovarian stimulation in women and is associated with several reproductive disorders, including anovulation, subfertility, and infertility. Despite improvements in fertility treatments, obesity remains a challenge particularly for fertility clinics because of the poorer pregnancy outcomes observed within the population. In this article, we will explore the effects of weight loss on female fertility and review the various strategies that have been shown to be effective in reducing obesity and improving reproductive outcomes.

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