• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Nutrition

Can Body Weight Impact Fertility Health?

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist
July 17, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

The role of weight in fertility health is complex. While weight does not always play a role in fertility problems, it is a hurdle for some couples trying to conceive. Evidence shows that obesity is a primary cause of female fertility problems in about 6% of cases. Another 6% of female infertility cases are caused from being underweight. There is good news: Research shows that correcting a weight challenge that triggers infertility can lead to natural conception in up to 70% of women!

How Does Weight Affect Fertility?

Being overweight or underweight affects natural fertility, medical fertility treatments, and pregnancy in various ways.

1. Being underweight or overweight can affect ovulation. Without ovulation, there is no chance for conception. Women who are underweight may experience anovulation and stop getting their menstrual cycle. We see this in women who over train/exercise, experience drastic weight loss or have eating disorders. Yet, some women face this problem, even if they are only slightly underweight. Having adequate body fat is critical for fertility. If your body fat is too low (below a BMI of 18.5), it can prevent the release of an egg or ovulation each month. Some experts suggest body mass index should be around 22 for optimum fertility.

Being overweight can also wreak havoc on ovulation. Overweight women often have higher insulin levels, which cause the ovaries to produce more androgens (male hormones), preventing normal egg release or ovulation. Insulin-resistant PCOS is a common cause of anovulation, female fertility problems, and is, in part, tied to weight challenges.

2. Weight challenges decrease male fertility. For men, being overweight or underweight can lead to lower testosterone levels and reduced fertility. Low testosterone levels decrease the testes’ ability to produce healthy sperm. Excess body weight can increase estrogen levels, and the number of abnormal sperm – a risk factor for miscarriage or chromosomal problems in a pregnancy.

3. Weight challenges can impact the success of IVF treatments. Being overweight or underweight can affect the body’s responsiveness to fertility medications. Further, the egg retrieval process is sometimes more difficult in women with weight challenges. Women with these issues are also more at risk for having immature eggs and a lower success rate for embryo transfer. Early research suggests having a high BMI can even reduce your IVF success rates if you’re using donor eggs.

4. Weight challenges can lead to pregnancy complications. Being overweight or underweight presents special challenges in pregnancy. Being overweight can increase the risk of miscarriage, high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, premature birth, preeclampsia, and delivery complications. Being underweight during pregnancy can lead to low birth weights or preterm delivery. It’s important to do your best to address a weight challenge prior to conception whenever possible.

Are you unsure if you’re at a healthy weight?

You can use a standard BMI calculator to find out your body fat based on your weight and height. Do your best to stay within a normal range (18.5–24.9). Studies suggest a BMI below 30 is best for fertility health. If you’re outside of the normal range, ask yourself what your weight blocks are. Sometimes, emotional issues are behind troubles with weight and food. Stress, anxiety and depression are other common weight challenge triggers.

Healthy Weight Solutions

1. Take a look at your diet composition. You may not be eating enough or you may be basing your diet on the wrong kinds of foods. Many clients I work with addressing fertility concerns are not eating regular, balanced meals. Skipping meals is a common problem I see for both underweight and overweight clients.

  • The Fertility Diet is a building diet. Each meal should consist of colorful vegetables or fruit (covering half your plate), a healthy protein and a healthy fat. For excess weight or PCOS, it makes a huge difference to balance your daily protein intake with an equal or lesser amount of complex carbohydrates.
  • Healthy, complex carbohydrates are an important source of nutrients for your diet. Simple and processed carbohydrates (refined bread, potatoes, pasta, white rice, high sugar foods) do not offer much nutritionally and are culprits for hormone imbalance. Having a treat once in awhile is okay. For your regular diet, choose carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits and vegetables, legumes, and beans instead.
  • If you struggle with eating enough food or have a history of an eating disorder, focus on nutrient-dense foods. If you can’t seem to clean your plate, enjoy a smaller meal along with a Fertility Smoothie with added whey or plant protein. Add more essential fats to each meal, such as avocado, raw nuts and seeds, or nut butters. Include a booster like spirulina for added nutrition in your daily drinks. Work with a counselor experienced with eating disorders if you need more support.

2. Get your body moving. Strive for low-impact exercises at a moderate intensity level, like walking, light jogging, swimming or Fertility Yoga, 30-60 minutes, 5 days a week. Enlist the support of a personal trainer who can help you create a program for your preconception needs, or consider a preconception fitness and wellness program like Fit & Fabulous. Avoid over training or intense exercise programs as they can increase testosterone levels or lead to further weight loss for underweight people.

Healthy Weight Round up

If you have a weight challenge that is affecting your fertility, start with small steps to improve your diet and lifestyle. Here too are 10 Steps to Sustained Weight Loss & Achieving a Healthy Weight. Extremely rigid programs are usually unsustainable and may lead to other deficiencies or imbalances. Keep a daily food and exercise journal to stay accountable.

Ask for support as you go through this process. Especially take advantage of natural stress relief therapies. Reduce your stress with mind-body therapies to ease the emotional component of a weight challenge. Be easy on yourself! Know that the changes you’re making could be the key to renewed fertility and a healthy pregnancy in the future.

References

  • Green, B. B., Weiss, N. S., & Daling, J. R. (1988). Risk of ovulatory infertility in relation to body weight**Supported in part by the National Institute of Child Health and Development, contract NOI HD 02821. Fertility and Sterility, 50(5), 721-726. doi:10.1016/s0015-0282(16)60305-9. Retrieved from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028216603059?via%3Dihub
  • Malik, S. (2014, Nov.). The Truth about Weight and Fertility. Retrieved from: https://www.shadygrovefertility.com/blog/fertility-health/the-truth-about-weight-and-fertility/
  • Fertility and A Woman’s Weight. (2017). Retrieved from: http://yourfertility.org.au/for-women/weight-and-fertility/
  • Barton, D. (2017). Study Shows Increased Infertility Risk for a BMI Over 30. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/overweight-infertility.html
  • Rodriguez, H. (2017). Infertility Due to Being Underweight. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/infertility-due-to-being-underweight.html
  • Redmond, J. (2017). How Fat Can Affect Fertility. Retrieved from: https://www.fertilityauthority.com/articles/how-fat-can-affect-fertility
  • Aquilina, J. (2017). Will Being Underweight Affect My Ability To Get Pregnant? Retrieved from: https://www.babycentre.co.uk/x554802/will-being-underweight-affect-my-ability-to-get-pregnant#ixzz4lVzNCmAu

Β« Previous Post
Chocolate Cysts, Their Fertility Impact and How to Rebalance the Body
Next Post Β»
Success Story: Chavonne's Miracle After Focusing on Creating a Healthy Body

About the Author

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist

Sarah has worked in the field of natural foods and herbalism for over 20 years. She's the Co-Author of "Healthy Healing" with over 1 million copies sold, a Certified Herbalist, and a health and wellness consultant. Sarah Graduated from the Professional Herbal Studies program atΒ East West School of Herbology, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English from St. Mary's College. Working with women on their journey to wellness is her passion and she loves to share what she has been blessed to learn from naturopaths and other herbalists over the years.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 29

Open
Womb Care Therapeutic Castor oil kit is a powerful tool that includes a special blend of organic castor oil and organic therapeutic essential oils designed to enhance circulation, promote detoxification and support healing wherever it is applied.

The Womb Care Castor oil Kit is a natural and effective solution for promoting reproductive health and easing pelvic discomfort in women. 

Womb Care Castor Oil Packs are a simple, yet powerful, natural therapy that involves applying essential oil infused castor oil to a cotton flannel and placing it on the skin. The pack is then covered with our wrap. While wearing the wrap, the properties in the castor oil are absorbed and used by the body to increase circulation and promote detoxification, while nourishing the skin and underlying tissues.

If you're looking for a natural way to enhance circulation, promote detoxification, and support reproductive health, Womb Careβ„’ Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs help to cleanse the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about Womb Care Therapeutic Castor Oil Packs for fertility type PACK in the comments below and I will send you a link to my workshop.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 29

Open
Here is how to prepare you Womb Care Castor Oil Pack for the first time. 

Womb Care Wraps make regular castor oil packs soooo easy. 

πŸ‘‰ If you’d like to learn more about Womb Care Castor Oil Packs and how to use them for supporting reproductive health type β€œPACK” in the comments and I’ll send you a link to my Castor Oil Packs Introduction.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 28

Open
Designed to help you experience:

Regular cycles and overcome:
➑️ Lack of ovulation
➑️ Short/Long luteal or follicular phase
➑️ Cycles longer than 35 days

Healthy menstrual cycles and overcome:
➑️ PMS, cramps, mood swings
➑️ Heavy, light, or missing periods
➑️ Spotting

Healthy circulation to reproductive organs and:
➑️ Improve uterine lining and support implantation
➑️ Improve cervical mucus
➑️ Support cleansing and detoxification
➑️ Stress support

For anyone seeking to support general reproductive health as well. πŸŒΏπŸ’•

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 27

Open
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture. 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body's energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Self-Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle. 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 26

Open
Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems.

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
By nourishing our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can create a fertile ground for our fertility to thrive, and a life that is rich with meaning, purpose, and joy.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems. 

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 25

Open
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture.Β 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body’s energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle.Β 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts.Β 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you’d like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 24

Open
To best support your fertility, having a clear understanding of the monthly fertility cycles can make a big difference. 

Swipe through to learn about the different cycles and which fertility products and therapies are best to use for each cycle. 

Save or share if you found this guide helpful.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
My newest Fertility Therapy for fertility support!

Drop Cycle Method is and all-in-one solution combines the ancient wisdom of self-acupressure with the natural healing properties of essential oils to support each stage of your fertility cycle. 

Experience a natural, holistic approach to enhancing your chances of conception and overall well-being.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 23

Open
Introducing my carefully crafted blends designed to support you throughout your fertility journey. Discover the transformative benefits of each blend and find harmony within your cycle.

1️⃣ Radiant Wombβ„’: Embrace the first two weeks of your cycle with this specially formulated blend. Crafted using 100% organic essential oils, it encourages a calming mood, supports hormone balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries. Nurture a healthy uterine lining and radiate fertility from within.

2️⃣ Calm Wombβ„’: Step into the luteal phase with tranquility and well-being. This 100% organic comforting blend provides a sense of calm and support during this crucial implantation phase. Embrace the journey with a peaceful heart and invite harmony into your womb.

3️⃣ FertiliClearβ„’: Give your reproductive system the cleanse support and detoxification it deserves. With this 100% organic blend, experience the power of stimulating healthy liver function, promoting detoxification, and reducing inflammation. Create a fertile environment by embracing the body's natural ability to heal and rejuvenate.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 22

Open
A healthy lifestyle is not just a path to a better body, but a path to a better life, where we can manifest our deepest desires and wildest dreams.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 22

Open
Here are my favorite 7 essential oils for hormone balance and how to safely use them. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 21

Open
πŸ₯š In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🀯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➑️ Proper circulation
➑️ A healthy fertility cycle
➑️ Balanced hormones
➑️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

πŸ™‚ The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 20

Open
Did you know that you can use therapeutic essential oils to help support hormonal health?

Yes you can, but keep a few things in mind...

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Quality of the essential oils
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper use and timing (there are certain essential oils to avoid after ovulation)
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper dilution

πŸ™ŒπŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 20

Open
πŸ‘‹πŸ½ Unlocking the Power of Reflexology for the Endocrine System 🌟

Step into the world of healing self-care as we dive deep into reflexology and its incredible impact on the endocrine system! πŸ‘‹πŸ½βœ¨

1️⃣ Balance: Discover the key reflex points on your hands that correspond to the thyroid, pituitary, and liver. By stimulating these points through reflexology, we can support these vital systems for optimal hormonal health.

2️⃣ Thyroid Harmony: By focusing on the thyroid reflexes, we aim to regulate the thyroid gland's function. Balancing thyroid activity can enhance hormone production and improve overall fertility health.

3️⃣ Pituitary Vitality: The pituitary gland, known as the master gland, plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive hormones. Reflexology can help stimulate the pituitary reflexes, promoting hormonal balance and supporting fertility.

4️⃣ Liver Rejuvenation: The liver is responsible for detoxification and hormone metabolism. Through reflexology, we can enhance liver function, aiding in the removal of toxins and promoting hormonal balance for improved fertility.

5️⃣ Holistic Fertility Support: By supporting the thyroid, pituitary, and liver through reflexology, we create an optimal environment for fertility. Balanced hormone levels, improved detoxification, and enhanced hormonal regulation contribute to overall reproductive well-being.

🌟 Embrace the transformative power of reflexology and unlock the secrets to supporting your endocrine health for improved fertility.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
There are so many great ways to use essential oils to help support fertility and reproductive health. The main uses I focus on are:

🌼 Hormone health
🌼 Period health
🌼 Regulate a cycle
🌼 Reduce stress
🌼 Detoxification and regular cleansing

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
Harness the power of aromatherapy for fertility!

Swipe to learn more about how to safely use essential oils to help support:
🌼 Hormonal health 
🌸 Regular cycles 
🌺 Peaceful periods 
🌿 and so much more... 

πŸ’§ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility and the Drop Cycle Method type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my introduction video.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 18

Open
Eating for fertility has so many amazing benefits beyond fertility!

Not only do you see a difference in your hormone health, your period and your cm. You also get the added benefits of glowing skin, more energy and better digestion. 

I've got something amazing in the works that makes eating for fertility a super easy, but until that is ready - just focus on adding these foods to your daily menu. 

πŸ‘‡ If you would like to learn more about fertility nutrition. Type 'DIET' in the comments below to get my Fertility Diet Starter Guide... πŸ‘‡

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 18

Open
So excited to finally share the Drop Cycle Method with you! 

This all-in-one solution combines the ancient wisdom of self-acupressure with the natural healing properties of essential oils to support each stage of your fertility cycle. Experience a natural, holistic approach to enhancing your chances of conception and overall well-being.

πŸ‘‰ Type DCM in the comments if you’d like to learn more
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Products

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us