About 15-18 % of Indian couples have difficulty in conceiving or having a baby in the first place, and around 35% of them resort to assisted reproduction or IVF methods to aid. It is interesting to note that 20-25% of Indian women are now having babies at the age of 35 and this makes a greater awareness of fertility more vital than ever before.
According to India, infertility is described as the inability to become pregnant after a calendar year. For women who are over 35, it is suggested to consult a gynaecologist following the first six months after trying.
On an average:
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70% of couples have a baby within the first month after trying.
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60% within the first three months.
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A majority of them Within 6 months.However, 15-18% struggle with difficulties in conception.
How Natural Conception Happens
To have a natural pregnancy the woman must:
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Release eggs during the ovulation phase (usually during the mid-cycle).
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The egg moves via the fallopian tube until it meets the sperm.
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Fertilization must occur.
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The fertilized egg is implanted in the uterine lining.
Hormone balance is essential for this process:
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FSH: Triggers the stimulation of ovaries and causes them to release eggs.
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LH: Triggers ovulation and progesterone release.
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Progesterone: It supports the lining of the uterus and early pregnancies.
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Estradiol: It thickens the uterine lining to facilitate implant.
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Testosterone and DHEA: Support the release of the egg.
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AMH: Indicates reserves of ovarian cells (egg number).
Signs of Fertility Issues in Women
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Inconsistent cycles- too short or too long, or missing periods.
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Periods that are heavy or painful could be a sign of endometriosis.
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Other signs are sudden weight fluctuations, skin problems, hair loss, diminished sexual libido.
The causes of infertility are usually divided into:
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1/3 female factors.
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1/3 male characteristics (like lower sperm counts).
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1/3 unproven or a combination of causes.
Healthy Habits to Improve Fertility
1. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
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Obesity among women is related to irregular ovulation as well as the risk of miscarriage.
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In males, excess weight lowers the quality of sperm.
2. Moderate Caffeine Intake
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Limit it to 200-300 mg per day (2-3 cups of strong chai/caffeine).
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A higher intake can impact fertility, both in men and women.
3. Exercise Regularly
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Minimum 3 hours of moderate activity each week increases fertility, particularly in women who suffer from PCOS.
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Reduces the risk of miscarriage and increases the chance of implant-ability.
4. Avoid Alcohol
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Alcohol can affect the balance of hormones (FSH, LH, testosterone) and lowers the quality of sperm.
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Avoiding alcohol before and during pregnancy.
5. Prioritize Sleep & Stress Management
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Stress and sleep disturbances can disrupt hormone cycles.
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Try to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep along with stress-reduction methods like yoga, meditation and pranayama.
6. Add Key Fertility Supplements
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Folic acid (5-MTHF): Lowers the risk of neural tube defects.
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Vitamin D, iron, calcium, omega-3s, and iron are essential for reproductive health.
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Supplementation with CoQ10 supports egg quality, boosts the ovarian response, and increases cell energy to help conception.
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Supplementation for energy improves endurance, decreases fatigue, and helps men's sperm health as well as the reproductive function of women.
These specific nutrients are useful in vegan and vegetarian diets that are prevalent in India.
Final Thoughts
If you're thinking of having a baby or have already tried, you should consider taking a fertility exam to determine the effects of hormones, nutrition in addition to reproductive health. Alongside the lifestyle change including an COQ10 supplement and an energy booster supplement will help support natural fertility and increase the chances of having a healthy conception.
