Hormonal imbalance usually create ovulatory dysfunction and short luteal phases. Ovulatory dysfunction happens due to irregularities in thyroid hormone production or polycystic ovary syndrome. On the other hand, progesterone controls the short luteal phase –the time period immediately following ovulation. The normal luteal phase is 13 to 14 days. Anything below 10 days prevents a fertilized embryo from implanting and prevents pregnancy.
After it is ascertained that a hormonal imbalance is actually responsible for the infertility problem, the exact treatment would depend on the specific hormonal imbalance. Women who have higher prolactin levels are usually advised to take Bromocriptine, while those with insulin-resistance may be advised to take Metformin.
Gonadotropins or Clomiphene is given to both males and females with hormonal imbalances. In fact, Gonadotropins or Clomiphene record a higher success rate in increasing fertility in women. For men, the hormone that is usually prescribed is testosterone to correct an imbalance. Medication apart, the following steps need to be borne in mind to correct hormonal imbalances.
# NutritionBy far, the most critical factor in getting pregnant is nutrition. Conceiving or sustaining a pregnancy is simply not possible for those who are undernourished and yet overweight. The body just won’t allow it. The correct diet to tackle hormonal imbalances to increase fertility therefore, is elimination of all processed grains, foods, starches and sugars from your diet; eating more carbohydrates in the form of squash and sweet potatoes; increasing the intake of healthy fats by way of coconut oil, coconuts, olives and olive oil, grass-fed meats, butter, avocado, eggs and nuts to minimize pregnancy complications; eating plenty of green leafy vegetables like lettuce, broccoli, spinach, kale, cauliflower, chard, collard, Brussels sprouts and cabbage; and drinking plenty of water as hydration influences fertility.
# LifestyleCertain habits like smoking, excessive drinking, high caffeine intake and drug use can impair fertility severely. Other lifestyle factors like lack of ample sleep; too much or lack of proper exercise; exposure to any harmful chemicals; medication or high stress levels can also lead to infertility. Thus, getting enough sleep is vital for hormone production. Studies show that women with lower serotonin and melatonin levels have shorter luteal phases with lower chances of conceiving. Insomnia also impairs the body’s ability to regulate cortisol, adrenaline and insulin properly, which makes conception difficult.
# ExerciseAdequate exercise is crucial to fertility and walking, swimming or fun sports definitely aid fertility. However, too much of rigorous exercising prevents ovulation and a body fat level below 15 to 18% is likely to make the body go into an anti-ovulation state. It is also advisable to practice yoga under the supervision of a trained instructor. Strenous exercise and yoga postures should be avoided during the menstrual cycle.
# Limit stress & check medicationsReduced stress levels within the body and in the mind lead to higher fertility levels. As the saying goes“ a relaxed mind and body gives birth to a healthy baby.” Also certain antidepressants and steroids are known to impair fertility. So check with your physician before taking them.