Extreme body weight — whether underweight or overweight — is emerging as a major yet often overlooked cause of infertility in both men and women, new research shows.Read More
A landmark 2025 study has found that nearly 75% of women seeking fertility treatments were either too thin or carrying excess weight, underscoring how widespread weight-related fertility challenges have become. Fertility experts are now sounding the alarm on the hidden reproductive risks tied to unhealthy body weight, especially across India where awareness remains low. Medical experts warn that maintaining a healthy weight is essential for reproductive health. In women, being significantly underweight can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to irregular or absent ovulation. Conversely, excess weight — particularly obesity — can more than double the risk of ovulation problems, complicating efforts to conceive. “When body fat levels are too low or too high, it sends mixed hormonal signals to the ovaries,” said Dr. Rubina Pandit, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Basaveshwarnagar, Bengaluru. “This confusion can prevent the release of eggs necessary for pregnancy.” The recent study’s finding — that three out of four women seeking fertility help fall outside the ideal weight range — points to a major but modifiable risk factor that is still not widely understood by the public. While fertility issues are often framed as a women’s health matter, Dr. Pandit stresses that men are equally vulnerable to the reproductive risks of obesity. Excess fat in men can lower testosterone levels, increase estrogen production, and significantly impair sperm quality. “Obesity in men affects sperm count, motility, and even DNA integrity,” Dr. Pandit explained. “It is one of the few fertility risk factors that can often be improved with straightforward lifestyle changes.” Global studies increasingly support this view, confirming that obesity is now among the leading causes of male infertility worldwide. The good news, according to experts, is that body weight is a factor couples can control — often with significant improvements to their fertility prospects. Rather than extreme dieting or overexercising, doctors recommend a steady, sustainable approach. Dr. Pandit advises a combination of: “Rapid weight loss can be just as harmful as excess weight when it comes to fertility,” Dr. Pandit noted. “We encourage slow, consistent changes that the body can adapt to naturally.” Despite mounting clinical evidence, there is still a major gap in public knowledge about the link between body weight and reproductive health. Many couples in India delay seeking help or are unaware that weight management could dramatically impact their fertility outcomes. Fertility specialists are calling for broader education campaigns to address misconceptions and encourage early interventions. Understanding weight’s role could help countless couples avoid unnecessary treatments and emotional distress. As fertility challenges rise globally, experts agree that addressing modifiable factors like weight could be a game-changer. A healthy body weight is not just about general wellness — it plays a crucial role in successful conception. With timely support, gradual lifestyle changes, and expert guidance, many couples can significantly boost their fertility prospects. And in a world where reproductive technologies continue to evolve, something as fundamental as weight management remains one of the simplest, most powerful tools for building a family.Body Weight and Women’s Fertility: A Critical Link
Men Are Not Immune: Obesity’s Hidden Impact on Sperm Health
A Lifestyle Fix: How Diet and Exercise Can Restore Fertility
Urgent Need for Public Awareness
Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact
Reference : https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/weight-fertility-and-pregnancy-health
New Study Reveals How Extreme Body Weight Quietly Threatens Fertility
Extreme body weight — whether underweight or overweight — is emerging as a major yet often overlooked cause of infertility in both men and women, new research shows.Read More