Taking it a step too far? Physical activity and infertility

Abstract

Purpose

Public health messages are a constant reminder, informing us that we need to participate in more physical activity. Such messages when coupled with increased social pressures can mean that vulnerable women are at risk of over‐exercising. Research indicates that light‐to‐moderate physical activities are associated with most favourable health outcomes. Intense activities, however, may actually have detrimental effects, including suppression of reproductive function. The aim of this paper is to give a balanced overview discussing how physical activity can affect female health, with a particular focus on fertility.

Design/methodology/approach

The most up‐to‐date and pertinent studies within the literature have been included and summated in this review.

Findings

Statistics indicate that approimately half‐a‐million (443,116) women in the UK are infertile. Furthermore, many women experience some degree of subfertility, although a prevalence rate has not yet been established. Research indicates that reproductive abnormalities are more likely to be present in women at either ends of the energy spectrum (excessively high, or low energy intake). An inadequate energy intake coupled with intense levels of physical activity is known to suppress reproductive function in women. It has been reported that reproduction dysfunction may take place in as many as 6‐79 per cent women engaging in athletic activity.

Originality/value

This paper gives a concise, up‐to‐date informative overview on how physical activity can affect female fertility.

Citation

Derbyshire, E. (2007), "Taking it a step too far? Physical activity and infertility", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 37 No. 5, pp. 313-318. https://doi.org/10.1108/00346650710828334