Fertility Longevity
Striving to maintain fertility as long as possible is important for any women of reproductive age for different reasons:
Many people prioritize education and career development in their younger years. Focusing on these goals early in life may lead to delayed family planning. Maintaining fertility options allows individuals to pursue their professional aspirations while keeping the possibility of parenthood open for later.
Couples may want to establish a stable relationship before having children. This can take time, and preserving fertility allows them to wait until they feel their relationship is ready for parenthood.
In many parts of the world, there is a trend toward delayed parenthood. People are waiting longer to have children for various reasons, including education, career, and personal growth. Maintaining fertility options accommodates these changing demographics.
Fertility can be indicative of your overall reproductive health. A decline in fertility may signal underlying health issues that need attention, such as hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or endometriosis. Addressing these concerns early can help preserve your reproductive health and overall well-being.
Ovulating as long as possible is also sign of a healthy production of sex hormones which are beneficial to get pregnant and sustain a pregnancy but also for overall health such as cardiovascular protection, insulin sensitivity, bone health, etc.
Those are why I put such an emphasis on Postpartum recovery to preserve fertility longevity. Here are few of the strategies that I would focus on with my Postpartum ladies:
Balanced Nutrition: Focus on maintaining a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Adequate nutrition supports overall reproductive health and hormone balance.
Adequate Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps regulate bodily functions and supports optimal reproductive health.
Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and promote overall well-being. Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or swimming, can help regulate hormones, reduce stress, and improve blood circulation to reproductive organs.
Manage Stress: High levels of stress can negatively impact fertility. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques (meditation, deep breathing), engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or seeking professional support through counseling or therapy.
Rest and Sleep: Prioritize sufficient rest and quality sleep to support hormonal balance and overall well-being. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and create a sleep-friendly environment to promote restorative sleep.
Breastfeeding Considerations: If you're breastfeeding, it's important to note that exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of fertility. However, it's not a foolproof method of contraception, so if you wish to prevent pregnancy, discuss contraceptive options with your healthcare provider.
Monitor Menstrual Cycle: Pay attention to your menstrual cycle patterns as they return postpartum. Understanding your menstrual cycle can help you identify potential issues or irregularities that may affect fertility. Keep track of your periods, including the duration and any other notable changes, and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Postpartum Check-ups: Attend regular postpartum check-ups with your healthcare provider. These visits allow them to monitor your overall health, address any concerns, and provide guidance specific to your fertility goals.
Remember that fertility can vary for individuals, and it's important to reach out for help if you experieice challenges to get pregnant or if you have irregular cycle/lack of ovulation and are not peri-menopausal/menopausal. If you have any concerns please reach out to your doctor or alternatively contact a Women’s Health Practioner or a holistic coach.