Obesity can lead to infertility,say experts at PGI symposium

Surgeons from across the country discussed medical management of morbid obesity. The session aimed to apprise people about various problems related to obesity like diabetes,high-blood pressure,cardiac diseases,stroke,osteoarthritis,risk of cancer and infertility.

Speaking on the occasion,Dr Jayashree Todkar said the condition of infertility was extremely common among obese patients. “The awareness level of the condition of obesity and infertility is very low,resulting in many patients not being able to receive the correct treatment”.

“The fertility-related effects of obesity vary in men and women. The problem of infertility is most common in the age group of 25-50 years. In women,excessive accumulation of fatty tissue often results in hormonal imbalances,which can lead to failed pregnancies,polycystic ovary syndrome and increased risk of gestational diabetes. Recent studies also show that babies of obese mothers are also at a greater risk of developing obesity related co-morbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders,” added Dr Todkar.

Dr Rajesh Gupta of PGI said,“Nearly 80-90% of female morbidly obese patients that come to PGI for treatment,suffer from some level of infertility. We see around 10-15 such patients every month. The impact of obesity-related infertility is more severe in females as hormonal imbalance can result in increased risk of miscarriage and difficulties during pregnancy”.

Dr Anil Bhansali (endocrinologist),Dr R K Sharma (plastic surgeon),Dr Ajit Awasthi (psychiatrist),B N Behra (dietitian) and Dr Rajesh Gupta (bariatric surgeon) discussed the issues with patients. The operated patients shared their experience with potential patients. Causes of obesity,role of diet and exercise and surgery for long-term solution for weight control were also discussed.