Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

World Health Day: Is Your Child’s Behavior Just A Phase? Expert Reveals Signs Of Mental Health Struggles In Kids

Is Your Child’s Behavior Just A Phase? Expert Reveals Signs Of Mental Health Struggles In Kids

It's a question that quietly lingers in many parents' and caregivers' minds perhaps your normally cheerful child has been unusually quiet. Or maybe your teenager, once outgoing and lively, appears more withdrawn or irritable by the day. You attribute it to growing pains, hormones, or school stress. But deep in your belly, a small voice whispers: Could this be something more ominous?

Maybe at last <span>mental health</span> is finally receiving the attention it should receive. And yet with children, it's still simple to miss the early warning signs. After all, kids don't always know how they're feeling—and sometimes their distress manifests itself in seemingly random ways, like difficulty sleeping, tantrums, or even reports of a tummy ache.

In the complex process of childhood development, mental health tends to take a backseat to worry about physical growth, vaccinations, and diet. But as there is growing awareness about emotional health worldwide, it's increasingly becoming apparent that children's mental health deserves as much concern and care as their physical health. In fact, pediatricians are now leading the way in detecting early warning signs that could indicate more serious psychological problems.

We interviewed Dr. Kushal Agrawal, Department Head of Neonatology and Paediatrics, to learn how pediatricians recognize the early warning signs of mental health issues—and why parents must never second-guess their instincts. His observations shed light on what's normal, what's not, and how early intervention can be the difference-maker in a child's life.

In keeping with the World Health Organization's findings, it is estimated that one in every six children in the 10-19 year age group suffer from a mental health condition. Experts point out that early detection and intervention are what can transform a child's life. Dr. Kushal, points out, "Being pediatricians, we are also the first stop when children exhibit slight changes in mood or behavior. While overall physical health still takes precedence, the increasing rates of <span>mental disorders in children</span> deserve equal priority.

<h2>What <span rel="noindex">Mental Health in Children</span> Really Means?</h2>

Child mental health is the emotional, psychological, and social well-being that determines how they think, feel, and behave. It is instrumental in enabling them to deal with stress, relate to others, and make proper choices. While physical illnesses are more apparent and can be diagnosed easily, mental health issues tend to present themselves subtly—sometimes not being noticed until they start impacting schoolwork, social interaction, or family dynamics.

A child's mental health is not fixed but changes with age, environmental factors, and biological growth. Hence, it is important to have constant interaction and monitoring in identifying red flags early.

<h2>Common Mental Health Disorders Identified in Children</h2>

Children may exhibit a range of mental health disorders that appear during different phases of their lives. These include developmental and mood as well as behavioral disorders:

<strong>Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): </strong>Marked by communication problems and repetitive activities, symptoms typically emerge in early childhood and greatly differ in intensity.

<strong>Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):</strong> ADHD is a very frequent neurodevelopmental disorder among children, commonly associated with inattention, impulsiveness, and restlessness.

<strong>Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):</strong> This disorder might occur after the experience or witness of a traumatic event. PTSD children tend to have difficulty with flashbacks, sleep disturbances, and emotional unresponsiveness.

<strong>Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):</strong> Children who have OCD have uncontrollable, repetitive thoughts and acts they feel the need to repeat.

<strong>Mood Disorders:</strong> Both depression and bipolar disorder may be seen in children, usually disguised as irritability or hostility.

<strong>Developmental Disorders: </strong>These are a range of disorders involving language, behavior, and learning disorders, and usually require early treatment.

Dr. Agrawal explains, "Mental health issues may manifest differently in children than in adults. One of the first signs is a clear change in behavior—avoidance of activities they previously enjoyed, sudden belligerence, or persistent unhappiness."

<h2>Early Warning Signs Parents Shouldn't Ignore</h2>

Getting ahead of the game starts with paying attention. Kids might not have the words or emotional maturity to describe their suffering, so their pain tends to emerge through behavior.

<strong>Behavioral Changes:</strong> Sudden moodiness, chronic irritability, or defiance can be more than a bad day. A reclusive extroverted child, or an aggressive child previously mild, warrants closer scrutiny.

<strong>Sleep and Eating Changes:</strong> Sleep disruptions—insomnia, nightmares, or hyper-sleeping—and shifts in appetite are potential precursors of emotional stress or anxiety.

<strong>Academic Struggles:</strong> A former high-achieving student might suddenly turn away from homework, face difficulty maintaining attention, or act out in class. "Decline academically is another significant signal," responds Dr. Agrawal. "A declining, previously attentive student may be quietly fighting anxiety or depression."

<strong>Physical Complaints:</strong> Persistent, unexplained headaches or stomachaches—particularly coupled with stress-producing situations—are commonly associated with emotional pain.

<strong>Regressive or Risky Behaviors:</strong> Young children can regress to previous behaviors like bedwetting or clinginess, whereas older children can indulge in risky behavior or show hopelessness.

<h2>Supporting Mental Health at Home</h2>

The home environment is a critical factor in a child's mental and emotional health. Dr. Agrawal believes in empowering parents with practical strategies that assist in creating a stable, supportive environment.

Create a space where your child feels safe discussing emotions. Avoid rushing to solutions—instead, listen actively and validate their feelings. This reassures them that they are not alone.

<h4>Maintain Routine and Predictability</h4>

Children find comfort in structure. Regular mealtimes, bedtime routines, and household rules provide a sense of security, especially during stressful times.

<h4>Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Habits</h4>

Exercise, healthy eating, and sleep have a significant effect on mood and mental focus. Everyday family activities such as evening strolls or family meals can reinforce connections and enhance emotional well-being.

Learning about mental health dispels the stigma. With child-friendly materials, tell your child that mental health is as vital as physical health—and that asking for help is a strength.

Accepting your child's efforts and accomplishments, however minor, increases their self-esteem and resilience. Praise effort, not perfection.

Dr. Agrawal suggests that parents "trust their instincts—if something feels 'off,' it probably is." Regular pediatric check-ups are a good time to mention concerns. Pediatricians can offer initial evaluation and refer families to child psychologists or psychiatrists, as needed.

It's crucial not to wait to seek professional help. Early intervention can lessen the severity of mental illness and provide children with coping skills that last a lifetime.

Identifying and treating children's mental health is not just a parent's job—it takes a shared effort from educators, caregivers, and healthcare providers. As awareness increases in society, so must our dedication to listening, watching, and acting early.

<em>Dr Kushal Agrawal is HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital, Kashipur in India.</em>

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It's a question that quietly lingers in many parents' and caregivers' minds perhaps your normally cheerful child has been unusually quiet. Or maybe your teenager, once outgoing and lively, appears more withdrawn or irritable by the day. You attribute it to growing pains, hormones, or school stress. But deep in your belly, a small voice whispers: Could this be something more ominous?Maybe at last mental health is finally receiving the attention it should receive. And yet with children, it's still simple to miss the early warning signs. After all, kids don't always know how they're feeling—and sometimes their distress manifests itself in seemingly random ways, like difficulty sleeping, tantrums, or even reports of a tummy ache.In the complex process of childhood development, mental health tends to take a backseat to worry about physical growth, vaccinations, and diet. But as there is growing awareness about emotional health worldwide, it's increasingly becoming apparent that children's mental health deserves as much concern and care as their physical health. In fact, pediatricians are now leading the way in detecting early warning signs that could indicate more serious psychological problems.We interviewed Dr. Kushal Agrawal, Department Head of Neonatology and Paediatrics, to learn how pediatricians recognize the early warning signs of mental health issues—and why parents must never second-guess their instincts. His observations shed light on what's normal, what's not, and how early intervention can be the difference-maker in a child's life.In keeping with the World Health Organization's findings, it is estimated that one in every six children in the 10-19 year age group suffer from a mental health condition. Experts point out that early detection and intervention are what can transform a child's life. Dr. Kushal, points out, "Being pediatricians, we are also the first stop when children exhibit slight changes in mood or behavior. While overall physical health still takes precedence, the increasing rates of mental disorders in children deserve equal priority.What Mental Health in Children Really Means?Child mental health is the emotional, psychological, and social well-being that determines how they think, feel, and behave. It is instrumental in enabling them to deal with stress, relate to others, and make proper choices. While physical illnesses are more apparent and can be diagnosed easily, mental health issues tend to present themselves subtly—sometimes not being noticed until they start impacting schoolwork, social interaction, or family dynamics.A child's mental health is not fixed but changes with age, environmental factors, and biological growth. Hence, it is important to have constant interaction and monitoring in identifying red flags early.Common Mental Health Disorders Identified in ChildrenChildren may exhibit a range of mental health disorders that appear during different phases of their lives. These include developmental and mood as well as behavioral disorders:Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Marked by communication problems and repetitive activities, symptoms typically emerge in early childhood and greatly differ in intensity.Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a very frequent neurodevelopmental disorder among children, commonly associated with inattention, impulsiveness, and restlessness.Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This disorder might occur after the experience or witness of a traumatic event. PTSD children tend to have difficulty with flashbacks, sleep disturbances, and emotional unresponsiveness.Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Children who have OCD have uncontrollable, repetitive thoughts and acts they feel the need to repeat.Mood Disorders: Both depression and bipolar disorder may be seen in children, usually disguised as irritability or hostility.Developmental Disorders: These are a range of disorders involving language, behavior, and learning disorders, and usually require early treatment.Dr. Agrawal explains, "Mental health issues may manifest differently in children than in adults. One of the first signs is a clear change in behavior—avoidance of activities they previously enjoyed, sudden belligerence, or persistent unhappiness."Early Warning Signs Parents Shouldn't IgnoreGetting ahead of the game starts with paying attention. Kids might not have the words or emotional maturity to describe their suffering, so their pain tends to emerge through behavior.Behavioral Changes: Sudden moodiness, chronic irritability, or defiance can be more than a bad day. A reclusive extroverted child, or an aggressive child previously mild, warrants closer scrutiny.Sleep and Eating Changes: Sleep disruptions—insomnia, nightmares, or hyper-sleeping—and shifts in appetite are potential precursors of emotional stress or anxiety.Academic Struggles: A former high-achieving student might suddenly turn away from homework, face difficulty maintaining attention, or act out in class. "Decline academically is another significant signal," responds Dr. Agrawal. "A declining, previously attentive student may be quietly fighting anxiety or depression."Physical Complaints: Persistent, unexplained headaches or stomachaches—particularly coupled with stress-producing situations—are commonly associated with emotional pain.Regressive or Risky Behaviors: Young children can regress to previous behaviors like bedwetting or clinginess, whereas older children can indulge in risky behavior or show hopelessness.Supporting Mental Health at HomeThe home environment is a critical factor in a child's mental and emotional health. Dr. Agrawal believes in empowering parents with practical strategies that assist in creating a stable, supportive environment.Establish Open CommunicationCreate a space where your child feels safe discussing emotions. Avoid rushing to solutions—instead, listen actively and validate their feelings. This reassures them that they are not alone.Maintain Routine and PredictabilityChildren find comfort in structure. Regular mealtimes, bedtime routines, and household rules provide a sense of security, especially during stressful times.Encourage Healthy Lifestyle HabitsExercise, healthy eating, and sleep have a significant effect on mood and mental focus. Everyday family activities such as evening strolls or family meals can reinforce connections and enhance emotional well-being.Educate Yourself and Your ChildLearning about mental health dispels the stigma. With child-friendly materials, tell your child that mental health is as vital as physical health—and that asking for help is a strength.Use Positive ReinforcementAccepting your child's efforts and accomplishments, however minor, increases their self-esteem and resilience. Praise effort, not perfection.When to Seek Professional Help?Dr. Agrawal suggests that parents "trust their instincts—if something feels 'off,' it probably is." Regular pediatric check-ups are a good time to mention concerns. Pediatricians can offer initial evaluation and refer families to child psychologists or psychiatrists, as needed.It's crucial not to wait to seek professional help. Early intervention can lessen the severity of mental illness and provide children with coping skills that last a lifetime.Identifying and treating children's mental health is not just a parent's job—it takes a shared effort from educators, caregivers, and healthcare providers. As awareness increases in society, so must our dedication to listening, watching, and acting early.Dr Kushal Agrawal is HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital, Kashipur in India.

world health day: is your child’s behavior just a phase? expert reveals signs of mental health struggles in kids

Aarushi Bhadury

Parents Do Play Favorites - Research Finds What Is The Key To Favoritism Among Parents

Research Finds What Is The Key To Favoritism Among Parents

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While parents often claim they do not have a favorite child, sometimes their favor is evident. Sometimes it is the kid they depend on the most, other times it is the youngest kid of the family. However, is there a specific factor parents enjoy more in their kids? After analyzing factors like age, gender and behavioral pattern, researchers found what parents favored the most in their children 

In a 2025 study published by the <span>Psychological Bulletin</span>, researchers found that parents favor daughters. They are more likely to be the favorite, across both mothers and fathers. Firstborn children also often receive more positive attention. Additionally, children who are described as conscientious – meaning they are responsible, organized, and do what they're supposed to – are also frequently favored. These findings suggest that certain personality traits and birth order can influence how parents interact with their children, even if unintentionally. 

<h2>How Did They Find Parents Favored Certain Kids </h2>

Researchers looked at the results of many different studies. They combined the findings from over two dozen research papers, including articles, school projects, and large collections of data. This allowed them to see broader patterns in how parents treat their children differently. By looking at things like how much affection parents show and how they share resources, the researchers could draw more reliable conclusions than if they had just looked at one single study. This big picture approach helps us understand the common trends in parental favoritism. 

<h2>Why Did The Parents Favor These Traits </h2>

Parents tend to grant older children more freedom and decision-making power, likely due to perceiving them as more mature and responsible based on their age and experience. Having navigated earlier developmental stages, they've often earned more trust, leading parents to offer greater independence compared to their younger siblings who are still learning and growing. 

Social norms and potential emotional closeness might contribute to daughters being favored. Parents may have different communication styles or expectations, possibly leading to a stronger perceived bond. While conscientiousness and agreeableness play a role overall, a general inclination towards daughters could also stem from subtle societal influences on parental perceptions and interactions. 

<h4>Conscientious and Agreeable Children </h4>

Children who are responsible, organized, cooperative, and kind often experience more positive parental interactions. Their agreeable nature leads to less conflict, creating smoother relationships. These traits can make parenting easier, resulting in more praise, trust, and overall favored treatment compared to siblings who may exhibit more challenging behaviors. 

<h2>Avoiding Shows Of Favoritism For Kid’s Well-Being </h2>

When children feel like they are not the favorite, it can have a real impact on their well-being. It's not just about feeling a little sad; it can affect their mental health, their relationships with others, and even how well they do in school. To make sure all their children feel equally loved and valued, parents can try a few practical things. 

It's helpful for parents to regularly think about how they interact with each child. Showing interest in each child's unique hobbies and asking them open-ended questions about what's important to them can make a big difference. 

Spending dedicated one-on-one time with each child and avoiding comparisons between them are also key. Encouraging a positive relationship between siblings and openly talking about everyone's needs can create a more supportive and equitable family environment. 

Parents Do Play Favorites

psychological bulletin

parents favor these traits older siblings parents

Key To Favoritism Among Parents

why do Parents Favored Certain Kids

what traits do parents favour

While parents often claim they do not have a favorite child, sometimes their favor is evident. Sometimes it is the kid they depend on the most, other times it is the youngest kid of the family. However, is there a specific factor parents enjoy more in their kids? After analyzing factors like age, gender and behavioral pattern, researchers found what parents favored the most in their children In a 2025 study published by the Psychological Bulletin, researchers found that parents favor daughters. They are more likely to be the favorite, across both mothers and fathers. Firstborn children also often receive more positive attention. Additionally, children who are described as conscientious – meaning they are responsible, organized, and do what they're supposed to – are also frequently favored. These findings suggest that certain personality traits and birth order can influence how parents interact with their children, even if unintentionally. How Did They Find Parents Favored Certain Kids Researchers looked at the results of many different studies. They combined the findings from over two dozen research papers, including articles, school projects, and large collections of data. This allowed them to see broader patterns in how parents treat their children differently. By looking at things like how much affection parents show and how they share resources, the researchers could draw more reliable conclusions than if they had just looked at one single study. This big picture approach helps us understand the common trends in parental favoritism. Why Did The Parents Favor These Traits Older Siblings Parents tend to grant older children more freedom and decision-making power, likely due to perceiving them as more mature and responsible based on their age and experience. Having navigated earlier developmental stages, they've often earned more trust, leading parents to offer greater independence compared to their younger siblings who are still learning and growing. Daughters Social norms and potential emotional closeness might contribute to daughters being favored. Parents may have different communication styles or expectations, possibly leading to a stronger perceived bond. While conscientiousness and agreeableness play a role overall, a general inclination towards daughters could also stem from subtle societal influences on parental perceptions and interactions. Conscientious and Agreeable Children Children who are responsible, organized, cooperative, and kind often experience more positive parental interactions. Their agreeable nature leads to less conflict, creating smoother relationships. These traits can make parenting easier, resulting in more praise, trust, and overall favored treatment compared to siblings who may exhibit more challenging behaviors. Avoiding Shows Of Favoritism For Kid’s Well-Being When children feel like they are not the favorite, it can have a real impact on their well-being. It's not just about feeling a little sad; it can affect their mental health, their relationships with others, and even how well they do in school. To make sure all their children feel equally loved and valued, parents can try a few practical things. It's helpful for parents to regularly think about how they interact with each child. Showing interest in each child's unique hobbies and asking them open-ended questions about what's important to them can make a big difference. Spending dedicated one-on-one time with each child and avoiding comparisons between them are also key. Encouraging a positive relationship between siblings and openly talking about everyone's needs can create a more supportive and equitable family environment. 

parents do play favorites - research finds what is the key to favoritism among parents

Your Daily Dose Of Sunlight Could Boost Fertility And Ovarian Health After 30

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Trying to conceive in your 30s can feel like a race against time, but what if the secret to increasing your fertility was as easy as taking a walk outside for some sunlight? Yes, you heard that right! New studies indicate moderate sun exposure to have a crucial role in maintaining <span>ovarian health</span> and fertility, particularly for women past the age of 30. The quest for fertility and reproductive well-being assumes greater importance with advancing age for women, more so after passing the 30s. That biological functions change with age for women is not a secret, and with this comes the dip in fertility as well but what if something as easy as sunlight could improve those chances? Research indicates that moderate sunlight exposure may play a big role in ovarian health and fertility, particularly in women aged over 30.

We've known for years that sunlight improves our mood and mental health. Natural serotonin production while being exposed to sunlight is well-documented, but new studies are now connecting sunlight exposure with better fertility rates, especially among women aged over 30.

A study appearing in Steroids, authored by scientists at Tel Aviv University and the Sheba Medical Center, reveals how solar radiation exposure may impact fertility. The study, in particular, examined how sun exposure influenced the level of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) in women. AMH is an important marker of ovarian reserve—the amount of eggs a woman possesses in her ovaries, which determines her fertility potential.

The scientists followed 2,235 women aged 20 to 40 and discovered an interesting trend: women aged 30 to 40 who were exposed to moderate amounts of sunlight in spring and autumn had more AMH compared to those exposed to little sunlight in winter months. Surprisingly, those who were exposed to more solar radiation in summer had greater levels of AMH than those in the winter. Although the study does not create a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it does imply that moderate sun exposure can be good for ovarian reserve and therefore fertility. 

Vitamin D, or the "sunshine vitamin," is manufactured by our skin after exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D has been found to be very important for fertility, especially for women who are attempting to get pregnant. A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to unfavorable fertility outcomes, such as lower IVF success rates and an increased risk of pregnancy complications.

For women attempting conception without medical aid, having optimal levels of vitamin D can maximize the possibility of conception. A number of studies establish that women with higher levels of vitamin D are likely to have better rates of implantation of the embryo and better success when undergoing IVF treatment. The relationship between <span>vitamin D and fertility</span> highlights the need to maximize exposure to sunlight or take supplements, especially for those attempting conception.

While moderate sun exposure will improve fertility by increasing vitamin D levels and AMH levels, it's necessary to counterbalance this with the danger of too much sun. Long-term exposure to strong sunlight can cause sun damage, premature aging, and increased skin cancer risk. So, it's worth striving for safe, moderate sun exposure—usually, about 10 to 30 minutes a few times a week, depending on the type of your skin and sun intensity.

It's essential to pay attention to your body and not expose yourself to the sun during the strongest hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Applying sunscreen to longer exposures and dressing in protective clothing is worth considering to avoid long-term damage to your skin.

<h2>Fertility-Enhancing Lifestyle Changes for Women Age 30 and Above</h2>

Sunlight exposure is only half the solution when it comes to enhancing fertility among women aged 30 and above. Embracing a healthy lifestyle can also contribute in a notable way to enhancing reproductive health. These are some of the most important lifestyle changes that can enhance fertility:

A healthy diet high in antioxidants, healthy fats, and whole foods may also contribute to improving fertility. Foods that are rich in nutrients such as folic acid, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in maintaining reproductive health. Especially, consuming fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can normalize hormones and make conception more likely.

<h4>2. Exercise Regularly, But Don't Overdo It</h4>

Physical exercise is essential for general health and fertility. Regular, moderate exercise—like walking, swimming, or yoga—can help normalize hormones, enhance blood flow, and alleviate stress. Excessive exercise, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect and harm fertility. Women who overexert themselves or have extremely low body weight can suffer from menstrual irregularities, which can prevent ovulation.

Chronic stress is a proven fertility killer, as it can cause hormonal imbalance and affect ovulation. Adding stress-reduction methods like yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can help balance your body. Also, talking to a counselor or therapist can be helpful in resolving emotional and psychological stress that could be impacting your fertility.

Sleep is necessary for hormone balance and overall health. Lack of sleep can raise cortisol levels and interfere with your reproductive hormones. Get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night to aid your fertility and overall health.

Although no one factor can promise fertility, sunlight exposure may be a natural and inexpensive means of aiding reproductive health. Along with a healthy diet, exercise on a regular basis, and stress management techniques, you can really boost your chances of conception, particularly if you're in your 30s. Fertility is a multifaceted process, and it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider when changing your lifestyle or embarking on a family planning adventure.

Moderate sunlight exposure not only does your mood and mental health good but also has an unsuspected but possibly vital role to play in enhancing ovarian health and fertility beyond the age of 30.

women health

female fertility

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vitamin d and fertility

sunlight and fertility

ovarian health

fertility after 30

fertility tips for women

Trying to conceive in your 30s can feel like a race against time, but what if the secret to increasing your fertility was as easy as taking a walk outside for some sunlight? Yes, you heard that right! New studies indicate moderate sun exposure to have a crucial role in maintaining ovarian health and fertility, particularly for women past the age of 30. The quest for fertility and reproductive well-being assumes greater importance with advancing age for women, more so after passing the 30s. That biological functions change with age for women is not a secret, and with this comes the dip in fertility as well but what if something as easy as sunlight could improve those chances? Research indicates that moderate sunlight exposure may play a big role in ovarian health and fertility, particularly in women aged over 30.We've known for years that sunlight improves our mood and mental health. Natural serotonin production while being exposed to sunlight is well-documented, but new studies are now connecting sunlight exposure with better fertility rates, especially among women aged over 30.A study appearing in Steroids, authored by scientists at Tel Aviv University and the Sheba Medical Center, reveals how solar radiation exposure may impact fertility. The study, in particular, examined how sun exposure influenced the level of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) in women. AMH is an important marker of ovarian reserve—the amount of eggs a woman possesses in her ovaries, which determines her fertility potential.The scientists followed 2,235 women aged 20 to 40 and discovered an interesting trend: women aged 30 to 40 who were exposed to moderate amounts of sunlight in spring and autumn had more AMH compared to those exposed to little sunlight in winter months. Surprisingly, those who were exposed to more solar radiation in summer had greater levels of AMH than those in the winter. Although the study does not create a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it does imply that moderate sun exposure can be good for ovarian reserve and therefore fertility. Role of Vitamin D in FertilityVitamin D, or the "sunshine vitamin," is manufactured by our skin after exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D has been found to be very important for fertility, especially for women who are attempting to get pregnant. A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to unfavorable fertility outcomes, such as lower IVF success rates and an increased risk of pregnancy complications.For women attempting conception without medical aid, having optimal levels of vitamin D can maximize the possibility of conception. A number of studies establish that women with higher levels of vitamin D are likely to have better rates of implantation of the embryo and better success when undergoing IVF treatment. The relationship between vitamin D and fertility highlights the need to maximize exposure to sunlight or take supplements, especially for those attempting conception.How Much Sun is Too Much?While moderate sun exposure will improve fertility by increasing vitamin D levels and AMH levels, it's necessary to counterbalance this with the danger of too much sun. Long-term exposure to strong sunlight can cause sun damage, premature aging, and increased skin cancer risk. So, it's worth striving for safe, moderate sun exposure—usually, about 10 to 30 minutes a few times a week, depending on the type of your skin and sun intensity.It's essential to pay attention to your body and not expose yourself to the sun during the strongest hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Applying sunscreen to longer exposures and dressing in protective clothing is worth considering to avoid long-term damage to your skin.Fertility-Enhancing Lifestyle Changes for Women Age 30 and AboveSunlight exposure is only half the solution when it comes to enhancing fertility among women aged 30 and above. Embracing a healthy lifestyle can also contribute in a notable way to enhancing reproductive health. These are some of the most important lifestyle changes that can enhance fertility:1. Eat a Balanced DietA healthy diet high in antioxidants, healthy fats, and whole foods may also contribute to improving fertility. Foods that are rich in nutrients such as folic acid, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in maintaining reproductive health. Especially, consuming fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can normalize hormones and make conception more likely.2. Exercise Regularly, But Don't Overdo ItPhysical exercise is essential for general health and fertility. Regular, moderate exercise—like walking, swimming, or yoga—can help normalize hormones, enhance blood flow, and alleviate stress. Excessive exercise, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect and harm fertility. Women who overexert themselves or have extremely low body weight can suffer from menstrual irregularities, which can prevent ovulation.3. Stress ManagementChronic stress is a proven fertility killer, as it can cause hormonal imbalance and affect ovulation. Adding stress-reduction methods like yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can help balance your body. Also, talking to a counselor or therapist can be helpful in resolving emotional and psychological stress that could be impacting your fertility.4. Get Enough SleepSleep is necessary for hormone balance and overall health. Lack of sleep can raise cortisol levels and interfere with your reproductive hormones. Get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night to aid your fertility and overall health.Although no one factor can promise fertility, sunlight exposure may be a natural and inexpensive means of aiding reproductive health. Along with a healthy diet, exercise on a regular basis, and stress management techniques, you can really boost your chances of conception, particularly if you're in your 30s. Fertility is a multifaceted process, and it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider when changing your lifestyle or embarking on a family planning adventure.Moderate sunlight exposure not only does your mood and mental health good but also has an unsuspected but possibly vital role to play in enhancing ovarian health and fertility beyond the age of 30.

your daily dose of sunlight could boost fertility and ovarian health after 30

Ishita Roy

US Fertility Rate Remains Below Levels Needed To Sustain Population Growth

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The US is facing a long-term decline in the birth rates. As per experts, this raises a concern in terms of what this means for country's future, especially with regard to health of its population, economy, and caregiving systems. 

As per the new data released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 3.6 million babies were born in 2024. This is just a 1% increase from the previous year, which had been the lowest record in births. While this uptick may seem encouraging, it is not enough to reverse the troubling trend. 

The US fertility rate remains around 1.6 births per woman. This is significantly below the 2.1 births that is required to sustain the population growth without immigration. 

As per the demographers, this continuous drop began during the Great Recession in 2007. It has continued steadily since. 

One of the biggest shifts is the steep decline in teen births. In 1991, about 62 of every 1,000 teenage girl had a child. This number has now fell to just under 13 by 2024. This is a historic low that reflects a positive shift, better education, access to contraception, and changing attitudes about early parenthood. 

Similar trend is seen among women in their 20s, as the rates their too have dropped. In 2007, about 106 of every 1,000 women aged 20 to 24 gave birth. By 2024, the number has dropped to around 57. For women aged 25 to 29, the rate fell from 118 in every 1,000 women in 2007, to 91 in 2024. 

Though there has been a slight rise in births among women in their 30s, experts say that it is not enough to offset the overall decline. 

“One of the big questions is all these births that haven’t occurred—are they just being delayed?” asked Ken Johnson, a demographer at the University of New Hampshire. “Or are a lot of these births going to be forgone entirely?”

The answer has significant public health implications. A shrinking younger population could lead to fewer caregivers for an aging society, higher burdens on healthcare systems, and a smaller workforce contributing to national health programs like Medicare.

<h4>Why Are Fewer Americans Having Kids?</h4>

As per experts, while people still want children, there is a lingering financial burden and social barriers too that get in a way. High student loans, debt, and the rising coast of child care, unstable housing, along with limited access to paid parental leave are all major concerns. 

“People don’t have kids when they don’t feel good about their own futures,” said Karen Benjamin Guzzo, a family demographer at the University of North Carolina.

Some political leaders are proposing measures to encourage parenthood. Former President Trump, for instance, has suggested “baby bonuses” and scholarships for married couples or parents. However, Johnson believes that without stronger, systemic support, the U.S. birth rate is unlikely to bounce back to replacement level.

Immigration may help slow the effects of falling birth rates. Many immigrants move to the U.S. with plans to start families, Johnson noted. “They bring the potential for babies in the future.”

us birth rate decline

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birth rate decline

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The US is facing a long-term decline in the birth rates. As per experts, this raises a concern in terms of what this means for country's future, especially with regard to health of its population, economy, and caregiving systems. A Slight Rise in 2024As per the new data released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 3.6 million babies were born in 2024. This is just a 1% increase from the previous year, which had been the lowest record in births. While this uptick may seem encouraging, it is not enough to reverse the troubling trend. The US fertility rate remains around 1.6 births per woman. This is significantly below the 2.1 births that is required to sustain the population growth without immigration. As per the demographers, this continuous drop began during the Great Recession in 2007. It has continued steadily since. Shift In Teen BirthsOne of the biggest shifts is the steep decline in teen births. In 1991, about 62 of every 1,000 teenage girl had a child. This number has now fell to just under 13 by 2024. This is a historic low that reflects a positive shift, better education, access to contraception, and changing attitudes about early parenthood. Similar trend is seen among women in their 20s, as the rates their too have dropped. In 2007, about 106 of every 1,000 women aged 20 to 24 gave birth. By 2024, the number has dropped to around 57. For women aged 25 to 29, the rate fell from 118 in every 1,000 women in 2007, to 91 in 2024. Though there has been a slight rise in births among women in their 30s, experts say that it is not enough to offset the overall decline. Are Births Being Delayed?“One of the big questions is all these births that haven’t occurred—are they just being delayed?” asked Ken Johnson, a demographer at the University of New Hampshire. “Or are a lot of these births going to be forgone entirely?”The answer has significant public health implications. A shrinking younger population could lead to fewer caregivers for an aging society, higher burdens on healthcare systems, and a smaller workforce contributing to national health programs like Medicare.Why Are Fewer Americans Having Kids?As per experts, while people still want children, there is a lingering financial burden and social barriers too that get in a way. High student loans, debt, and the rising coast of child care, unstable housing, along with limited access to paid parental leave are all major concerns. “People don’t have kids when they don’t feel good about their own futures,” said Karen Benjamin Guzzo, a family demographer at the University of North Carolina.Can Policies Help?Some political leaders are proposing measures to encourage parenthood. Former President Trump, for instance, has suggested “baby bonuses” and scholarships for married couples or parents. However, Johnson believes that without stronger, systemic support, the U.S. birth rate is unlikely to bounce back to replacement level.Immigration may help slow the effects of falling birth rates. Many immigrants move to the U.S. with plans to start families, Johnson noted. “They bring the potential for babies in the future.”

us fertility rate remains below levels needed to sustain population growth

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