A Long-Standing Link Between Women and Fertility
Throughout history, fertility has held deep cultural meaning. Many traditions honoured female deities as symbols of life and renewal. In Greek mythology, Persephone embodies both fertility and the underworld — a reminder of how closely life, cycles, and reproduction are intertwined.
How Excess Weight Reduces the Chance of Pregnancy
Being overweight can significantly reduce a woman’s ability to conceive. When the BMI rises above 40, the likelihood of becoming pregnant decreases sharply. Fat tissue is not just a passive storage organ — it produces hormones that disrupt the body’s natural hormonal balance.
This can lead to irregular or even absent menstrual cycles, making ovulation unpredictable and lowering fertility. Research shows that overweight women have three times the risk of infertility compared with women of normal weight.
PCOS: A Major Cause of Infertility in Overweight Women
One of the most common reasons for fertility problems is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Around one in ten women is affected. PCOS causes a hormonal imbalance that interferes with ovulation.
Typical signs include enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles, elevated androgen levels, and irregular menstrual cycles. Excess body fat worsens these symptoms because fat tissue increases the production of hormones such as testosterone, which can further disrupt the cycle.
Improving Fertility Through Lifestyle Changes
Although PCOS cannot be cured, symptoms can be managed effectively. Weight loss and regular physical activity often help restore hormonal balance and improve fertility.
For women with severe obesity (BMI over 35), long-term and stable weight reduction is frequently achieved through weight loss surgery. Many studies show that after losing weight, menstrual cycles often normalise — and fertility improves significantly.
Conclusion: Protecting Fertility Through Early Action
Excess weight has a clear and measurable impact on female fertility and plays a major role in conditions like PCOS. Young women who live with obesity should be encouraged and supported to lose weight in order to preserve or improve their fertility.
Before undergoing weight loss surgery, a gynaecological assessment is recommended to ensure the best possible treatment plan for future pregnancy.
