What is infertility?
Infertility is a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Both male and female factors equally contribute to its prevalence.
Causes of Infertility
Infertility can arise from various factors, including age, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins. These factors can directly harm gametes, leading to reduced quantity and quality.
Specific Conditions and Demographics
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and declining sperm quality are significant contributors to infertility in Europe. Additionally, the LGBTQAI+ community and single individuals may experience involuntary childlessness.
Statistics on Infertility
Infertility in the estimated 17% of the population translates to 25 million EU citizens alone. Approximately 1 in 6 couples of reproductive age in Europe has problems conceiving.
White Paper (Fertility Europe (FE) and the European Parliamentary Forum for Sexual & Reproductive Rights (EPF)
https://www.epfweb.org/sites/default/files/2023-07/FE_WhitePaper_2023-WEB_0.pdf
Infertility: Lifestyle medicine approach
Infertility can stem from poor lifestyle choices. Lifestyle medicine offers excellent care options for men and women struggling with infertility. Making changes such as maintaining a healthy BMI, engaging in regular physical activity, minimizing toxic exposure, and getting enough sleep can significantly impact fertility. Additionally, reducing stress and cultivating social connections are crucial for improving fertility.
Benefits of Lifestyle Interventions
Studies show that lifestyle interventions can enhance sexual function in infertile women and improve sperm quality in infertile men after a three-month program focusing on diet and exercise. Furthermore, lifestyle changes can reduce depression and enhance the quality of life for both partners. Improving the lifestyle of infertile couples can lead to better quality of life and reduced medical costs.
References
- Wekker V, et al. (2018). A lifestyle intervention improves sexual function of women with obesity and infertility: A 5-year follow-up of a RCT. PLoS One.
- Humaidan P, et al. (2022). The combined effect of lifestyle intervention and antioxidant therapy on sperm DNA fragmentation and seminal oxidative stress in IVF patients: a pilot study. Int Braz J Urol.
- Park JM. (2020). The relationship between social support and infertility stress in infertile men. J Korea Convergence Soci.
Lifestyle medicine sessions for fertility
Lifestyle medicine sessions for infertility focus on identifying lifestyle choices that hinder fertility and developing personalized action plans. These sessions integrate evidence-based recommendations and offer holistic support programs tailored to individual needs. Catering to both women and men, specific programs are also available for couples. Follow-up sessions ensure continuous monitoring and adjustment of the action plan. This service collaborates with the patient’s doctor or clinic, ensuring a coordinated approach to optimizing fertility and overall reproductive health.
Schedule Your Session
Unlock the advantages of a tailored session by scheduling your appointment today. Simply click the provided link to get started.
Following conception, engage in comprehensive support programs tailored to pregnancy. For more information, please refer to the holistic programs.
