1 week Ago By Dr N Sapna Lulla
When summer arrives in full swing, most of us are focused on beach trips, breezy clothes, and mangoes. But while we’re embracing the sunshine, there’s something else that deserves our attentionour reproductive health. The sweltering heat of summer isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also subtly impact fertility, especially for women trying to conceive.
According to Dr N Sapna Lulla, Lead Consultant – Obstetrics &Gynaecology at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, the summer season brings unique challenges that women need to be aware of when planning a pregnancy. 1. Heat and Hormones: The Delicate Balance Our hormonal system is like a finely tuned, and temperature plays a surprisingly big role in keeping the rhythm steady.
Excessive heat can cause stress on the body, and when stress hormones like cortisol rise, they can interfere with reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone.This imbalance may lead to irregular menstrual cycles or even delayed ovulationtwo factors that can make conception more challenging. If you’re tracking your cycle, you might notice shifts or inconsistencies during peak summer months.
2. Dehydration: The Silent Disruptor Let’s talk hydration. In summer, our bodies lose more fluids through sweat, and unless we’re actively replenishing, mild dehydration can sneak in.
Cervical mucus, the slippery fluid that helps sperm reach the egg is highly dependent on hydration. Less water means less mucus, or mucus that’s too thick, which could potentially hinder sperm movement. So, if you’re trying to conceive, drinking enough water 8–10 glasses a dayisn’t just a wellness tip.
it’s a fertility booster. 3. Sleep & Temperature: Fertility’s Night Shift Getting quality sleep in summer can be tough, especially when you’re tossing and turning in a hot room.
But sleep is crucial for regulating reproductive hormones. Melatonin, a hormone that supports sleep, also has antioxidant properties that protect eggs from oxidative stress.Chronic sleep disruptions can reduce melatonin levels and affect ovulation.
So, consider cooling strategies like blackout curtains, breathable cotton sheets, and maybe even a fan by your bedside. 4. Travel, Timing, and Tracking Summer often means vacations, but if you’re trying to conceive, travel can sometimes throw your cycle off.
Time zone changes, altered sleep patterns, and even stress from planning trips can shift ovulation dates.If you’re using ovulation predictor kits or tracking apps, give yourself some time. Be consistent, but also allow some flexibilityyour body might not follow the calendar perfectly during these months.
5. Nourishment Matters With heat often comes reduced appetite, and many women find themselves skipping meals or opting for lighter sometimes less nutritiousfoods. But fertility thrives on balanced nutrition.
Key nutrients like folic acid, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for healthy egg development and implantation. Include seasonal fruits, leafy greens, whole grains, and lean proteins. And yes, that coconut water counts as a winhydrating and rich in potassium.
6. Mental Health & Body Positivity Summer often comes with societal pressures around body image, and these can impact mental health. Women trying to conceive may already be under emotional strain, and added stress about appearance or weight can compound it.
Be gentle with yourself. Fertility is not a race or a test. Practice mindfulness, take breaks from social media, and focus on what makes you feel good.
While summer does bring a few extra challenges for women trying to conceive, awareness and small adjustments can go a long way. Stay hydrated, nourish your body, sleep well. Fertility is a journeyand just like summer, it has its seasons.
With care, calm, and a little bit of sunscreen, you can move through it with grace and strength..
