Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Infertility During the Holidays
The holidays can be emotional, especially if you’ve been struggling with infertility. Here are some ways you can prioritize your well-being.
5 Fertility Factors You Can Control
While there is no way to completely ensure your fertility, there are a few factors that can help you reduce your risk of infertility. Fertility starts with you- so the healthier you are, the more likely you’ll be able to conceive and carry a healthy baby.
FIT FOR MOTHERHOOD
Maintaining a healthy weight is important- and not just for fitting in that little black dress. Women who are underweight may not ovulate regularly or have proper hormonal balance, decreasing their chances of becoming pregnant. While the doctors are still working to understand the impact of obesity, studies have shown that women who are overweight have more difficulty conceiving. Being overweight also brings additional complications, including increased risk of miscarriage. If you have questions about your weight and its impact on fertility- talk to an URANJ OBGYN.
SMOKING
Smoking is one habit that can decrease your chances of having a baby. Studies have shown that smokers have a harder time getting pregnant, experience an increased risk of miscarriage and enter menopause two years earlier than non-smokers.
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) can cause infertility- even years after contracting one. Reduce your risk of infertility by limiting your exposure to STDs. The fewer number of sexual partners you have, the less risk of contracting an STD. Also, using barrier birth control methods like condoms can further protect you from STDs.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Age may not be everything, but it is considered the most significant factor in fertility. Women are born with their lifetime egg reserve, so your eggs age as you do. Fertility rates decrease more rapidly after 35. If you want to buy some extra time- consider freezing your eggs. While it can be an expensive process- preserving your fertility can help you realize your dreams of having children later in life. The best time to evaluate this option is in your 20s and early 30s. Talk to an OBGYN at URANJ about fertility preservation.
GET HELP
The second most important factor in fertility is the duration of infertility. In other words- if you’re having trouble conceiving, ask for help! After trying unsuccessfully for 12 months or 6 months if your 35 and older- you should talk to our OBGYN. Sometimes small changes can make a big difference. Typically, our OBGYN will begin with a two month evaluation and treatment rounds that can last three to six months.
Contact your local URA clinic in Hasbrouck Heights, Hoboken, and Wayne, NJ for more information. Your friendly URA team will be happy to provide more details on any fertility tips.
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