Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Can Inflammation Affect Fertility? Expert Helps Us Understand the Hidden Connection

Chronic inflammation in the body could interrupt with hormones, as well as reproductive hormones and it could also lead to interfere with embryo implantation. As a result, conception could become more difficult for both men and women. Health and Me spoke to expert, Dr Varsha Agarwal, who is a consultant and <span>fertility</span> &amp; IVF specialist at Motherhood Fertility &amp; IVF, Noida. 

<h2>The Delicate Balance Of Fertility</h2>

Fertility depends on a delicate balance of hormones, she noted. Healthy reproductive organs, and proper immune functions are among the most important functions of the human body that results in healthy fertility. However, when the body experiences inflammation, explains Agarwal, this balance can be disrupted. Many individuals struggling with infertility may not even realize that inflammation could be one of the underlying conditions. 

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can create an internal environment that isn’t ideal for reproduction. According to Dr. Agarwal, “Chronic inflammation can interfere with hormonal signals, damage reproductive tissues, and even affect how an embryo implants in the uterus. Over time, this can make conception more difficult for both men and women.”

<h2>How Does Inflammation Affect Fertility In Women?</h2>

In women, inflammation can impact the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. It could also cause conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). These conditions are often linked with chronic inflammation and could disrupt ovulation, affect egg quality, and even alter the uterine lining. All of these could make conception more difficult. 

Dr. Agarwal explains, “Inflammation in the reproductive organs can lead to scarring or blockages in the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg and sperm from meeting. It can also alter the hormonal environment, which may delay or prevent ovulation.”

<h2>Does It Also Impact Male Fertility?</h2>

Inflammation doesn’t discriminate between men or women. Inflammation in the testicular or prostate area can reduce sperm count, motility, and quality, creating challenges in conception. “In men, oxidative stress triggered by chronic inflammation can damage sperm DNA and reduce fertility potential,” adds Dr. Agarwal.

Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, smoking, stress, lack of sleep, and exposure to toxins can all worsen inflammation and hormonal imbalances. Over time, these factors can contribute to infertility in both sexes.

<h2>What Can Be Done To Manage Inflammation?</h2>

Dr Agarwal recommends lifestyle measures like:

<ul><li>Consuming anti-inflammatory foods: fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fatty fish rich in omega-3. Avoid processed and fried foods. </li><li>Maintain a healthy weight by exercising daily</li><li>Stay active</li><li>Quit smoking</li><li>Prioritize sleep</li><li>Reduce stress by practicing mindfulness and meditation</li></ul>

“If conception isn’t happening despite regular attempts, it’s vital to consult an expert,” advises Dr. Agarwal. “Get screened for underlying inflammatory or autoimmune conditions early. With timely medical guidance and healthy lifestyle changes, it’s possible to reduce inflammation, restore hormonal balance, and improve fertility naturally and safely.”

Health Conditions A-Z

health

inflammation and fertility

parenting

fertility

womens health

reproductive health

Should I Take A Shower When I'm Sick?

Are You One Of The Six Types Of People Who Cannot Have Green Tea? Here’s What You Can Have Instead

Is There A Link Between Your Kidney Health And Other Chronic Diseases? Lancet Study Says Yes

Parenting

8 Sit-Up Variations to Strengthen Your Core and Build Stability

Benefits Of Ayurvedic Health Supplement Ashwagandha

9 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Options You Should Try

5 Foods You Should Avoid For PCOS, Says Gynecologist

Love Sitting With Your Legs Crossed? Here’s You Should Avoid It

6 Daily Foods That Are Secretly Increasing Your Calories

9 Brain Boosters You Should Do Everyday

Hip Exercises That Will Keep You Flexible As You Age

9 Leg Exercises Office Workers’ Should Do At Home

Benefits of Having Herbal Tea Every Morning

9 Daily Habits That Boost Your Brain Power

Lower-Body Exercises That Are Game-Changers

How Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Helps You

Aging Myths You Should Never Believe

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Instant Noodles Every Day?

Health Issues Premature Babies Often Face

Exercises Office Workers Should Do For Their Heart Health

Reasons Why You Should Add Raw Turmeric To Your Diet

Benefits Of Drinking Milk At Night: Why You Should Do It

Food That Provides Vitamin B12 Naturally In Your Diet

Surprising Health Benefits Of Fenugreek Seeds

9 Superfoods You Should Eat For Your Brain Health

What Does Mental Health Support Look Like At Work?

Long Stretches You Should Do To Unwind From Your Day

Colon Cancer In Young Adults: Early Symptoms You Should Know

Health Benefits Of Eating Dry Fruits Everyday

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

Chronic inflammation in the body could interrupt with hormones, as well as reproductive hormones and it could also lead to interfere with embryo implantation. As a result, conception could become more difficult for both men and women. Health and Me spoke to expert, Dr Varsha Agarwal, who is a consultant and fertility & IVF specialist at Motherhood Fertility & IVF, Noida. Here's what she explained. The Delicate Balance Of FertilityFertility depends on a delicate balance of hormones, she noted. Healthy reproductive organs, and proper immune functions are among the most important functions of the human body that results in healthy fertility. However, when the body experiences inflammation, explains Agarwal, this balance can be disrupted. Many individuals struggling with infertility may not even realize that inflammation could be one of the underlying conditions. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can create an internal environment that isn’t ideal for reproduction. According to Dr. Agarwal, “Chronic inflammation can interfere with hormonal signals, damage reproductive tissues, and even affect how an embryo implants in the uterus. Over time, this can make conception more difficult for both men and women.”How Does Inflammation Affect Fertility In Women?In women, inflammation can impact the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. It could also cause conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). These conditions are often linked with chronic inflammation and could disrupt ovulation, affect egg quality, and even alter the uterine lining. All of these could make conception more difficult. Dr. Agarwal explains, “Inflammation in the reproductive organs can lead to scarring or blockages in the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg and sperm from meeting. It can also alter the hormonal environment, which may delay or prevent ovulation.”Does It Also Impact Male Fertility?Inflammation doesn’t discriminate between men or women. Inflammation in the testicular or prostate area can reduce sperm count, motility, and quality, creating challenges in conception. “In men, oxidative stress triggered by chronic inflammation can damage sperm DNA and reduce fertility potential,” adds Dr. Agarwal.Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, smoking, stress, lack of sleep, and exposure to toxins can all worsen inflammation and hormonal imbalances. Over time, these factors can contribute to infertility in both sexes.What Can Be Done To Manage Inflammation?Dr Agarwal recommends lifestyle measures like:Consuming anti-inflammatory foods: fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fatty fish rich in omega-3. Avoid processed and fried foods. Maintain a healthy weight by exercising dailyStay activeQuit smokingPrioritize sleepReduce stress by practicing mindfulness and meditation“If conception isn’t happening despite regular attempts, it’s vital to consult an expert,” advises Dr. Agarwal. “Get screened for underlying inflammatory or autoimmune conditions early. With timely medical guidance and healthy lifestyle changes, it’s possible to reduce inflammation, restore hormonal balance, and improve fertility naturally and safely.”