Summer is a season of fun, sun, and relaxation. However, for women who are trying to conceive, summer can have a significant impact on their fertility.

In this article, we will explore how summer changes a woman’s fertility and what steps you can take to increase your chances of getting pregnant during the summer months.

Hot Weather and Fertility

One of the primary ways that summer affects a woman’s fertility is through hot weather. When the weather is hot, the body has to work harder to regulate its temperature, and this can impact fertility in several ways.

For starters, hot weather can cause a decrease in sperm quality and quantity in men. According to a study published in the journal Human Reproduction, men who were exposed to high temperatures, either through sauna use or by spending time in hot tubs, had a lower concentration of sperm and a reduced overall semen volume.

Hot weather can also impact a woman’s fertility. When a woman’s body temperature rises, it can disrupt ovulation and prevent the release of an egg.

This can lead to irregular menstrual cycles or missed periods, making it difficult to track when ovulation occurs and the best time to conceive. A study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility found that women who spent more than six hours a day in hot environments, such as saunas or hot tubs, were less likely to conceive than those who did not.

Dehydration and Fertility

Another way that summer can impact a woman’s fertility is through dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, it can interfere with the production of cervical mucus and reduce the amount of cervical mucus available for sperm to swim through.

This can make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg and fertilize it.

Dehydration can also impact the quality of a woman’s eggs. When the body is dehydrated, it can cause the cells in the body to shrink and reduce the flow of blood to the ovaries.

This can impact the quality of the eggs that are released during ovulation and reduce the chances of conception.

Seasonal Allergies and Fertility

Many women experience seasonal allergies during the summer months. While allergies may not seem like they would impact fertility, there is evidence to suggest that they can.

When the body is under stress, such as during an allergic reaction, it can produce the hormone cortisol. High levels of cortisol have been linked to a decrease in fertility and can make it more difficult to conceive.

What Can You Do to Improve Your Fertility During the Summer?

There are several steps that women can take to improve their fertility during the summer months. The first is to stay cool by avoiding hot environments such as saunas and hot tubs.

Women should also wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

In addition to staying cool and hydrated, women can improve their fertility by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and taking a prenatal vitamin.

Foods that are rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can improve egg quality and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy. Women should also try to reduce stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

Conclusion

Summer can impact a woman’s fertility in several ways, from hot weather to dehydration and allergies. By taking steps to stay cool, hydrated, and relaxed, women can improve their chances of conceiving during the summer months.

It is also important to talk to a doctor or fertility specialist if you are having difficulty getting pregnant, as there may be underlying factors that need to be addressed.