Conceiving a child can take months for many couples. It is natural to try several times before achieving a pregnancy. However, if you’ve tried up to a year without any success, other factors may contribute to infertility. Aspects of everyday lives may affect fertility such as stress, caffeine, smoking, timing, weight issues and age. Yet, some other issues you may have not thought of make it harder to conceive.
Surprising Reasons You’re Not Getting Pregnant
Chemical Exposure
The containers you use to drink your water out of or store your leftovers can have an affect on your fertility. Some plastic containers contain an estrogen-mimicking plastic-softening chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA). One way to tell that your water bottles contain this chemical is the number placed on the bottom of the container. Try to avoid any containers that have the number 7 on the bottom. This usually indicates that the plastic materials will contain some amounts of Bisphenol A.
Exposure to BPA does not cause permanent infertility. Our bodies are able to metabolize BPA fairly quickly and can be expelled from your systems within 24 hours. We are exposed to many different sources of BPA throughout the day and it is important to keep your daily load as minimal as possible. Be aware of the plastic containers you use and make sure to get ones labeled as “BPA Free.”
Lack of Sunshine
Studies have shown that couples who live in areas that are dark most of the day during winter months may have a more difficult time conceiving a child. This is because they may not receive the correct amounts of vitamin D, which the body synthesizes from sunlight. Vitamin D has been known to help stimulate and balance sex hormones and a lack of the vitamin can cause an imbalance in your hormone levels. One effect of low vitamin D levels is an elevated Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). High levels of FSH can cause an imbalance in menstrual cycles.
Lack of Oral Hygiene
Periodontal disease or gum disease has been linked to fertility problems in adults who try to conceive. Swollen gums around the teeth can house bacteria, which can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in other areas of the body. Inflammation in the abdomen can make it difficult for embryos to attach themselves to the uterus. Gum disease can also affect the quality of sperm in men, which could cause fertility issues.
Have you tried to conceive for more than six months with no success? Visit a fertility center for a consultation about our fertility treatments. Contact The Fertility Center of Las Vegas to schedule an appointment or to attend one of our patient education seminars.
