We all know that there are health benefits for people who work out regularly. For women who are trying to conceive, a healthy amount of exercise can help with fertility.
Women who participate in regular and steady exercise have a higher chance of getting pregnant than women who do not.
Fertility and Weight
Sometimes weight can be a cause of infertility. Women who are overweight or even underweight may have a harder time getting pregnant. While not being an ideal weight may not prevent conception, it puts mothers at high risk for pregnancy complications. Regular exercise, along with a healthy diet, can promote healthy weight loss for those who are obese or overweight.
Other Benefits of Exercising and Fertility
You do not have to partake in strenuous and heavy activity to be healthy or increase your chance at pregnancy. While it is not a direct cause of infertility, stress can cause harmful and unhealthy behaviors that can contribute to it. Exercise can be a great stress reliever. Be sure to do exercises that raise your heart rate, intensifies your breathing, and warms your body. Here are a few suggestions on activities that can increase fertility:
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Dancing
- Walking
- Yoga
- Pilates
Am I Overdoing It?
Some studies show that too much strenuous can also reduce your chances of getting pregnant. If you already partake in regular vigorous exercise, you are less likely to have infertility. But intense calorie-burning gym sessions where you are burning more than you are eating can be unhealthy and cause infertility. In addition, excessive and intense workouts can cause missed or irregular periods. It is imperative that you are eating to replenish your body of nutrients that are used during exercise.
For any questions about pregnancy, exercise, fertility, or your overall health, call Cool Spring OBGYN today at 615.690.6600 to make an appointment.