Couples With Obesity May Have More Difficulty Conceiving

A new study out of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that couples with obesity may have more difficulty conceiving than couples where both partners are at a normal weight. Specifically, obese couples were not even half as likely to conceive as couples with a normal body mass index (BMI). Additionally, couples where both partners are obese had a harder time conceiving than couples where only one partner is obese.

We have known that it is important for the female partner to be at a healthy weight prior to pregnancy. This study highlights the fact that the BMI of both partners seems to influence a couple’s ability to conceive. A total of 500 couples were followed daily for up to a year as they tried to conceive. When both partners had a BMI of 35 or greater, they were 60% less likely to conceive than couples with a normal BMI.

Many aspects of reproduction are completely out of our hands. This study suggests that achieving a healthy weight prior to conceiving can have a substantial impact on a couple’s probability of successfully conceiving on their own.

At the Fertility Centers of New England, we are committed to helping couples do everything possible to optimize their chances of conceiving naturally or with the help of assisted reproductive technologies. We also work with experienced nutritionists to assist and support our patients who are struggling with their weight. Our pregnancy rates remain outstanding, and we offer one of the most cost-competitive programs available. If you are having trouble conceiving and have questions about the best path for you, please contact us today!