Dr. Ritu Hinduja, obstetrician at Nova IVF Fertility Center, Mumbai (India) - said that the gut microbiome, including trillions of bacteria in the digestive tract, plays an important role in maintaining overall health.
“A balanced and diverse gut microbiome also contributes to immune function, nutrient absorption, and hormonal regulation, all of which are essential for fertility,” says Dr. Ritu Hinduja.
Affects hormone production
Sharing the same view, Dr. Anusha Rao, obstetrician and gynecologist, Yashoda Hospital, Hyderabad (India) - further explained that an imbalance in the intestinal microflora (called dysbiosis) can negatively affect reproductive health.
“It leads to inflammation and affects the production of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Additionally, the gut microbiome affects the absorption of important nutrients, such as folate, which is important for fetal development,” Dr. Anusha Rao emphasized.
Impact on inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a factor that negatively affects fertility, according to Dr. Ritu Hinduja. Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease can increase inflammation in the body, which can reduce egg or sperm quality or affect the ability to conceive.
Chronic inflammation can also impair the quality of the intrauterine environment, reducing the ability to conceive and increasing the risk of miscarriage.
Sperm health
Bacteria in the gut can affect sperm quality. A healthy microbiome improves sperm motility and shape, which improves fertility. An imbalance in gut bacteria can reduce sperm quality and reduce fertility in men.
Vaginal health
Beneficial bacteria found in the gut, such as lactobacillus, also reside in the vagina. A disrupted gut microbiome can alter the vaginal environment, which may affect fertility.
Dr. Anusha Rao notes that gut health plays a very important role in fertility in both men and women. Maintaining a healthy gut through a balanced diet, along with probiotics and a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on fertility.
