What is the link between infertility and a sedentary lifestyle?

According to Middle East Fertility Society Journal and PubMed, leading a sedentary or a physically inactive lifestyle can impair fertility in both men and women. Long periods of sitting, lack of exercise, and poor body composition (e.g. high body fat, low muscle mass) appear to negatively impact sperm quality, ovulation, and overall chances of conception. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Sedentary Behaviour and Infertility Risk: Studies show that sedentary behaviour (long hours sitting, minimal movement) is associated with increased risk of idiopathic infertility in both men and women. Physical inactivity and high body fat, common consequences of a sedentary lifestyle, were significantly associated with infertility (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Impact on Male Fertility: For men, a sedentary lifestyle has been linked to lower testosterone levels, reduced sperm motility and viability, and increased risk of hypogonadism (low reproductive hormone levels). Physically active men tend to have better semen parameters compared to sedentary men. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Impact on Female Fertility: In women, low physical activity and prolonged sedentary time are associated with higher odds of infertility. A study showed that women with low activity levels had over three times the risk of primary infertility compared to more active women. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Balanced Physical Activity is a Must: While inactivity worsens fertility, too much or very intense exercise can also be harmful, especially in women trying to conceive. Some studies report that excessive vigorous activity may impair fertility or disrupt menstrual cycles. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Role of Body Composition: Sedentary behaviour often leads to unhealthy body composition, increased fat mass and decreased lean muscle mass. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Lifestyle Intervention helps Restore Fertility: Lifestyle interventions including increasing physical activity and managing weight have been shown to improve fertility outcomes. In overweight and obese women with infertility, lifestyle intervention significantly improved ovulation incidence and overall fertility potential. (Source: Photo by unsplash)