In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Overweight Patients

At the Fertility Center of San Antonio, our team of specialists always work closely with patients to help them begin the families that they have always wanted. Treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) have proven extremely successful, though a number of health conditions can affect the results of fertility treatments.

With this in mind, we’d like to consider how excessive weight can impact results of professional fertility treatments.

Weight Can Affect Fertility

While the body mass index (BMI) does have some flaws at an individual level, it is a good overall guide for general ideal weight for someone’s height. The normal range is optimal for most people of average build. Athletes or people with a fair amount of muscle mass may be over this ideal range, which is why the metric can be misleading, but again, it’s a good general guide to consider for the majority of the population.

With this in mind, people who are noticeably above or below the ideal BMI for their height and age often experience a number of health and wellness issues, including changes in overall fertility.

Can obesity and morbid obesity result in infertility?

Yes.

If you are obese or morbidly obese, this can have a negative impact on your fertility due to changes in hormone levels. This can affect the health and viability of the eggs and can also lead to issues with the health of the uterine lining.

In addition to fertility problems, being obese or morbidly obese can also result in the following general wellness issues that can also lead to issues with fertility:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Gallstones/gallbladder disease

Can obese patients undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment?

Yes, so long as the patient understands that the infertility issue may be linked to her obesity or morbid obesity (i.e., obesity-related illness or health condition).

While fertility drugs are used to increase the chances of successful in vitro fertilization (IVF), there are other options to consider to make the treatment successful.

Ideal Options for Obese and Morbidly Obese Patients

Patients who are significantly overweight should consider some ways of improving their general health and wellness. This includes regular exercise and having a healthier diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. Both of these matters can help patients lose some weight, but generally enhance total wellness in the process.

Sometimes a patient’s fertility can be improved simply by losing weight and leading a healthier lifestyle. You may want to discuss these matters with your general practitioner in order to discuss positive lifestyle changes in greater detail.

Working with You to Ensure the Best Possible Results

Whatever your situation may be, our team of fertility specialists will work closely with you to ensure that you receive the best treatment possible to meet your needs. We will tailor all facets of your treatment to your situation to help you start the family of your dreams.

Schedule a Consultation at the Fertility Center of San Antonio

For more information about in vitro fertilization (IVF) and your many options available for starting the family that you have always wanted to have, be sure to contact our team of fertility specialists today. We at the Fertility Center of San Antonio will work closely with you each step of the way.