Summer can bring sunshine, warmth, and fun, but it can also have an impact on women’s reproductive health. From the heat to lifestyle changes, summer can affect fertility in ways that may surprise you.

Increased Heat Can Affect Fertility

One of the most significant impacts of summer on female fertility is heat. Whether it’s hot weather or spending time in a hot tub or sauna, elevated temperatures can negatively impact egg quality and ovulation in women.

Studies have shown that increased body temperature can cause damage to developing follicles and decrease the quality of eggs, making it more difficult to conceive.

What’s more, if your body temperature rises above 102 degrees Fahrenheit, it can cause damage to the developing fetus during pregnancy, leading to birth defects.

Lifestyle Changes Can Also Impact Fertility

Summer is often a time of relaxation and fun, but these lifestyle changes can also have an impact on fertility. Drinking alcohol, smoking, and eating unhealthy foods can all reduce fertility and harm the developing fetus if you do conceive.

For example, alcohol can reduce fertility by interrupting ovulation and interfering with the hormonal balance necessary for pregnancy. Smoking, on the other hand, can damage eggs and decrease the likelihood of conception.

And eating unhealthy foods can lead to inflammation in the body, throwing off hormone levels and leading to difficulty conceiving.

If you’re trying to conceive, it’s important to monitor your lifestyle choices and make positive changes to improve your fertility.

Stress Can Negatively Affect Fertility

Summer can also be a time of stress, from planning vacations to juggling work and family responsibilities. Unfortunately, stress can negatively impact fertility, leading to irregular periods, hormonal imbalances, and difficulty conceiving.

When we experience stress, the body produces cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with ovulation and egg quality.

In addition, stress can impact our sleep patterns, reduce our sex drive, and interfere with our ability to make healthy lifestyle choices that support fertility.

Exposure to Sunscreen Can Harm Fertility

While sunscreen is important for protecting your skin from UV rays, it can also have a negative impact on fertility. Some sunscreens contain chemicals known as endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with normal hormone function in the body.

These chemicals can mimic naturally occurring hormones in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances that can impact fertility.

In addition, endocrine disruptors can reduce the quality of sperm and egg cells, making it more difficult to conceive and increasing the risk of birth defects if you do conceive.

To reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals, look for sunscreens that are labeled “reef-safe” or “mineral-based.” You can also reduce your overall exposure by wearing hats and protective clothing and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours.

Conclusion

Summer can be a time of fun and relaxation, but it’s important to be mindful of the impact it can have on female fertility.

From heat exposure to unhealthy lifestyle choices, stress, and exposure to harmful chemicals, there are many factors to consider when trying to conceive during the summer months.

By staying informed, taking positive steps to support your fertility, and working with your healthcare provider, you can improve your chances of conceiving and give yourself a greater chance of experiencing a healthy pregnancy and childbirth.