Fertility & Reproductive Health

Fertility and reproductive health are fundamental aspects of human well-being, yet infertility affects approximately 15% of couples worldwide, impacting an estimated 48 million couples globally. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse. Both male and female factors contribute to infertility, with male factor infertility accounting for approximately 30-40% of cases, female factors for 40-50%, combined factors for 10-15%, and unexplained infertility for 10-20% of cases.

Female reproductive health involves complex hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and preparation of the uterine environment for implantation and pregnancy. Conditions affecting female fertility include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, ovulatory disorders, tubal factors, and age-related decline in ovarian reserve. Male fertility depends on adequate sperm production, quality (morphology), motility, and function. Oxidative stress, hormonal imbalances, varicocele, and lifestyle factors can impair male reproductive function.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in reproductive health for both partners. Specific nutrients are essential for hormone synthesis, oocyte (egg) and sperm quality, reproductive organ function, and early fetal development. Nutritional status before and during pregnancy significantly impacts maternal health and fetal outcomes. Preconception nutrition optimization can improve fertility outcomes, support healthy conception, and establish optimal conditions for pregnancy. Specialized medical nutrition can support couples undergoing fertility treatments and those preparing for pregnancy.