Does Healthy Gut Improve Chances of Conception? Gynaecologist Guides Through

How Does Gut Health Influence Hormones And Fertility

Describing gut microbiome, Dr. Amin said these are "trillions of tiny, living organisms that have great importance in the digestion process and function of the immune system as well as their manufacturing of essential vitamins and neurotransmitters."

Any imbalance in this situation, known as dysbiosis, "results in inflammation, weakened immunity, and many diseases- especially fertility issues," he added.

The doctor highlighted how healthily maintaining your gut "has been identified to have the potential to balance the necessary hormonal level toward conception."

"Estrogen, one of the major reproductive hormones, is metabolized within the liver and gut. The body can easily metabolize estrogen within the balanced gut microbiome so that hormone levels remain stable," he added.

When the balance gets disrupted, estrogen gets reabsorbed into the bloodstream, leading to hormonal imbalances and thus affecting ovulation and menstruation, the "major determinants of female fertility."

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As for males, the gut health-fertility link comes "through aspects of testosterone levels and sperm quality. Poor gut health gives rise to inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to the death of sperm or causing them to lose their mobility...this is another factor that decreases thechances of conception," said Dr. Amin.

3 Steps to Improve Gut Health, Thus Fertility

1) Diet:

"A diet that is high in fiber stimulates and ensures the flourishing of beneficial bacteria, and this naturally gives a stimulating boost to probiotics, or living microorganisms in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut," added Dr. Amin.

2) Lifestyle Changes:

As per the doctor, dietary approaches rich in prebiotics and probiotics, management of stress, and exercise are some of the lifestyle changes that are encouraged. These steps can improve gut health, enhance fertility with a balance in hormones, reduce inflammation, and overall wellness.

3) Probiotic Supplements:

"Targeted probiotic supplements could also prove helpful for women and men trying to conceive. Once more, though, that is best done by consultation with a health care provider when adding supplements to your regimen-especially if you are trying to conceive," he said.

The doctor stated that while improved gut health is advantageous to all women, it's specifically good for "those experiencing endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, as both of these conditions contribute to chronic inflammation."

Such chronic condition affects the reproductive process because of "reactions in the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. A healthy gut also prepares a woman's body for pregnancy as it allows for tolerance if anything may go wrong during the process, such as failure to implant or miscarriage early on," Dr. Amin wraps up.

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