Obesity, which affects more than 35% of Americans, is linked to many different health issues including diabetes, heart disease, and even infertility. Studies have shown that infertility affects approximately one in seven couples and many women who are overweight pursue help from reproductive specialists in order to conceive…
GETTING PREGNANT
Women who are considered morbidly (extremely) obese often have very limited access to some fertility programs because it is generally thought to be more difficult to provide the necessary care. Additional risks include increased concerns with anesthesia, additional technical issues during procedures, and greater difficulties completing regular ultrasound testing. Some doctors feel that fertility treatments, including IVF (in vitro fertilization), are not as successful for those who are considered to be obese. Therefore, some women may find fertility doctors and fertility clinics limiting access to fertility care for those who are extremely overweight.
RECENT STUDIES
At a meeting in 2012, however, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) took a different stance. ASRM’s position is that access to assisted reproductive technology should not be denied to obese women. Research studies have found that there is really no difference in outcome when obese women go through artificial insemination treatments or IVF.
AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH
It is important to remember, however, that there is evidence that shows that obese women often have pregnancies that are considered to be high-risk from a health perspective. Often, overweight women who are pregnant are more at risk for developing diabetes and hypertension. In addition, they are at a higher risk for premature delivery and cesarean sections. Some studies also show that babies born to women who are obese may be at a slightly higher risk for other health issues.
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE
If you are having trouble getting pregnant and you are very overweight, now is the time to meet with a reproductive specialist and a high-risk obstetrician. Because they will truly understand the issues and risks related to concerns surrounding fertility and pre-natal care for those struggling with obesity, they can offer the facts needed to make informed decisions. In addition, they may be able to make referrals to specialized nutrition and weight-loss programs that will help patients start working towards a healthier lifestyle that includes losing weight.
WEIGHT LOSS CAN IMPROVE
YOUR CHANCES OF CONCEPTION
A RESOLUTION FOR CHANGE
As we continue into the New Year, you may have already begun your list of resolutions for 2015. The most common resolution made at the beginning of each New Year involves losing weight. Losing weight is proven to help women increase their chances of conception and their chances of success with fertility treatment. In addition, studies have shown a decrease in the rate of miscarriages when women lose as little as 5% of their body weight.
STATISTICALLY SPEAKING
Results from one study that monitored obese women who were not ovulating found that those who lost as little as 5% of their body weight improved blood flow to the womb by as much as 19%. With the weight loss and improved blood flow, a major portion of the population studied resumed natural ovulation.
Of course, the idea of shedding several pounds to conceive can be disheartening for most of us. If weight loss is on your New Year’s resolution list, be sure to start with reasonable goals. It is easier to stick with your weight loss goals if they seem manageable; consider aiming for a 5% weight loss at first. As you get close to reaching that initial goal, make another goal to raise your weight loss to 10%. As you work toward meeting your weight management goals, you will inevitably increase your likelihood of conception.
FORM A SUPPORT SYSTEM
Weight loss for most of us is not easy and it is often difficult to stay motivated. When friends and family gladly offer their support, take it! If that support is not available, consider a support group. Your doctor or nutritional specialist may be able provide the support you need to stay firmly committed to your resolution to shed the weight. While following the latest diet craze may seem like the right answer to lose weight, you will find that the best weight loss programs encourage a specific low-calorie diet that promotes new eating habits, such as eating more fruits and vegetables. Many weight loss programs also encourage beginning a regular exercise program that combines moderate cardio and strength training.
If you are extremely overweight and having trouble getting pregnant, find a reproductive specialist sooner than later. If you live in the greater southeast Texas area, the highly successful staff at the Center of Reproductive Medicine (CORM) can help you realize your dream of building a family. They will work with you personally to help you determine the best fertility treatment program to meet your individual reproductive medical needs.