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How does diabetes affect fertility in men and women?

In today’s world, it is common to have a family member or friend who is affected by diabetes. However, do we truly understand the impact of diabetes on the body? Regrettably, one lesser-known effect of diabetes on males as well as females is infertility.

Remember, if you and your partner are actively seeking to conceive and have exhausted all options, the experts at IVF hospital have advised you to undergo a blood sugar test. This blog delves into the connection between diabetes and fertility, offering insights into potential obstacles and techniques to enhance your reproductive health.

How does diabetes impact fertility in both genders?

Diabetes- Introduction

• The condition of diabetes is characterized by inadequate insulin production by the pancreas (Type I diabetes) or ineffective insulin function (Type 2 diabetes).
• According to the World Health Organization, over 180 million individuals worldwide are affected by this condition.
• Notably, the prevalence of Type 1 diabetes is increasing at a concerning rate of 3% annually on a global scale.

Diabetes and infertility in men

Diabetes can impact fertility in various ways. Let us explore how diabetes can influence male fertility:

Sexual Dysfunction

• Diabetic men are susceptible to experiencing specific sexual problems such as retrograde ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
• Typically, individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing erectile dysfunction at an earlier stage.
• These aforementioned sexual complications can potentially result in a diminished interest in sexual activity following multiple unsuccessful attempts.

Reduced libido

• Glucose serves as the primary source of energy for optimal brain function.
• Inadequate glucose supply to specific regions of the brain, potentially resulting in diminished sexual desire, lethargy, or fatigue.

Sperm DNA damage

• Diabetes has been linked to elevated levels of nuclear, mitochondrial, and DNA damage in sperm, potentially impacting male reproductive function.

Sperm quality

• Research indicates that diabetic individuals may experience reduced sperm quality compared to non-diabetic individuals, with semen levels potentially being up to 25% lower.
• Additionally, diabetes has been linked to potential structural damage to sperm in some cases.

Diabetes and infertility in women

Women with well-managed blood sugar levels can still conceive despite having diabetes. Let’s explore how diabetes can potentially affect female fertility.

Menstrual issues

• The correlation between diabetes and menstrual issues such as extended periods, excessive bleeding, early onset menstruation, and prolonged menstrual cycles has been observed.
• Additionally, juvenile diabetes has been associated with delayed menarche.

Anovulation

• Anovulation is the absence of ovulation when it is typically expected in a woman of reproductive age.
• This condition can be caused by various factors such as chronic mental illness, hormone imbalances, pituitary or ovarian failure, or diabetes.
• Diabetic women with a low BMI may experience irregular periods due to intracellular starvation, leading to disruptions in the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and a subsequent decrease in gonadotropin levels.
• This ultimately results in lower levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin, which are crucial for reproductive function.

Complicated pregnancy

• Complications during pregnancy may arise from inadequate glucose control, leading to challenges with the implantation of fertilized eggs.
• Even if implantation is successful, diabetes has the potential to result in genetic abnormalities, macrosomia, or even pregnancy loss.

Decreased Libido

• A significant number of diabetic women may experience a decline in sexual desire due to feelings of fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
• Additionally, women may encounter discomfort and pain during intimate activities as a result of reduced vaginal lubrication.

Genitourinary infections

• Women with diabetes may be at risk for genitourinary infections, which could potentially cause harm to their reproductive organs, particularly the fallopian tubes.

Anti-sperm antibodies

• Anti-sperm antibodies, which are generated in individuals with diabetes, have been found to inhibit fertilization by attacking sperm and egg cells, potentially impacting fertility.

 

What solutions to seek?

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) and Diabetes

IVF

• In the context of fertility challenges, individuals with diabetes may opt for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to conceive.
• It is imperative to maintain meticulous control and supervision of blood glucose levels throughout the fertility treatment process.

Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT)

• For individuals with diabetes undergoing IVF, the integration of PGT into the cycle can be beneficial for screening embryos for genetic abnormalities prior to implantation.

Enhancing Fertility in Individuals with Diabetes

Blood Sugar Management

• Individuals with diabetes must maintain optimal blood sugar levels.
• Consistent control of blood sugar levels can have a positive impact on fertility outcomes.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Embracing a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a well-balanced diet, and weight management, plays a significant role in overall well-being and may have a positive effect on fertility.

Partnering with Healthcare Professionals

• Those with diabetes who are looking to conceive should closely collaborate with healthcare professionals, such as endocrinologists and fertility specialists at IVF hospital, for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Summary

By proactively managing diabetes, making lifestyle adjustments, and engaging in collaborative care with leading fertility specialists at the IVF centre in Punjab, endocrinologists, gynecologists, and andrologists you can effectively reduce the fertility challenges posed by diabetes.

It is important to understand any potential risks by maintaining a healthy diet, achieving an ideal weight, and adhering to the guidance provided by your healthcare team.

Stay healthy and plan your family.