Being overweight is a complicated health condition. This is not only related to cosmetic or appearance aspects, but also poses a risk of various serious health problems. The impact of being overweight includes the risk of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, certain types of cancer, and mental disorders such as depression. Apart from that, being overweight can also affect certain aspects, including fertility problems in both men and women.

The Impact of Obesity on Women's Fertility

Obesity can cause fertility problems in around 6 percent of women who have not experienced pregnancy. There are three ways in which obesity can affect women's reproductive processes:

1. Inhibits the Ovulation Process

Women who are overweight or obese tend to have higher levels of the hormone leptin. This hormone, produced by fat tissue, can disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones and have a negative impact on fertility. In women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), obesity can worsen the hormonal disorders that occur.

2. Increases Risk of Complications During Pregnancy and Childbirth

Research shows that live birth rates tend to decrease in pregnant women who are obese. The risk of miscarriage and pregnancy complications also increases. Some pregnancy complications that often occur in obese women include hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and urinary tract infections. In addition, obese women have a higher risk of giving birth to babies with a large birth weight (>4 kg), fetal death in the womb, and premature birth. The risk of bleeding and infection due to the birth process is also higher in pregnant women who are obese.

3. Reduces the Chances of Success of the IVF Program

Statistically, there is a decrease of around 16 percent in the chances of pregnancy through IVF in women who are obese. One of the causes is metabolic disorders of substances and hormones that play a role in the growth of egg follicles, embryo development and the embryo implantation process.

The Impact of Obesity on Male Fertility

Various studies state that the impact of being overweight affects male fertility through two main aspects:

1. Decreased Sperm Quality

Being overweight can result in changes in several parameters of sperm quality, including the total number of sperm, the number of sperm that move progressively, the shape of the sperm, and the genetic material (DNA) of the sperm.

2. Erectile Function Disorders

Research shows that erectile dysfunction tends to occur more often in men who are overweight, especially in those who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 30 kg/m2.

Obesity Prevention

To restore fertility levels in individuals who are obese, a weight loss program is needed that is implemented slowly. There are several steps you can take to achieve your ideal body weight, including:

1. Diet Management

It is important to stick to three meals a day by including two snacks. Start implementing the T model plate concept, which indicates that the amount of vegetables consumed should be twice as large as protein and carbohydrate sources. Ensure a balance between protein and carbohydrates without excess.

Apart from that, it is also important to consume adequate amounts of fruit every day, as well as varying the type of fruit consumed.

2. Regular Physical Activity

Doing exercise regularly can increase the body's metabolism. It is important to choose a type of exercise that suits individual abilities, avoid overexerting yourself when sick, and allow time for necessary rest.

To maintain health, you can start by walking briskly for 10 minutes and increase it gradually. Other physical activities include cycling, aerobics, or swimming. Do exercise regularly, 3-4 times a week, with a duration of 30-60 minutes per session.

3. Enough rest

When maintaining a stable body weight, adequate rest plays an important role. Make sure to sleep for 7-8 hours per day, avoid staying up late, and avoid excessive fatigue.Breaks can also be filled with enjoyable activities, such as recreation and pursuing hobbies.

Obesity can affect fertility in both men and women. Therefore, it is important to maintain health by maintaining an ideal body weight through a disciplined diet, active exercise and adequate rest. Let's start implementing these steps now!

References:

https://bocahindonesia.com/dampak-obesitas-pada-kesuburan/

https://www.klikdokter.com/info-sehat/reproduksi/hati-hati-kegemukan-bisa-memengaruhi-kesuburan