Insulin resistance (IR), a condition in which the body’s cells become less sensitive to the hormone insulin, plays a critical role in various aspects of health, including reproductive health. This metabolic disorder is increasingly associated with difficulties in achieving and maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
EFFECT ON OVULATION
Elevated insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to produce excess androgens and estrogen (male and female sex hormones), which suppress ovulation. The most recognizable characteristic of chronic anovulation irregular periods or even missing your period for months. This is an alarming symptom that you should notify your gynecologist about.
POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME
Insulin resistance and subsequent hormonal disturbances are closely related to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a complex condition that presents with a number of symptoms, including:
- increased androgen levels
- impaired glucose tolerance
- excess weight or obesity
- multiple ovarian cysts
- irregular menstruation
- skin manifestations: increased hair growth (hirsutism), acne, hyperpigmentation
- mental health problems: depression, anxiety, etc.
The consequences of PCOS do not only include infertility. The syndrome is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes as well as heart disease.
WHY DOES INSULIN RESISTANCE INTERFERE WITH PREGNANCY?
On the one hand, insulin resistance suppresses ovulation, and without ovulation, fertilization cannot occur.
On the other hand, IR affects the endometrium (uterine lining). Studies have shown that in women with IR, there is a reduced receptivity of the endometrium to the embryo, which would prevent implantation, respectively the achievement of a successful pregnancy.
Last but not least, maternal IR can be a risk factor for miscarriage and fetal complications.
HOW DO I INCREASE MY CHANCES OF GETTING PREGNANT?
While insulin resistance can pose a fertility challenge, the good news is that lifestyle changes can help improve your reproductive health. They include:
- Appropriate diet. Switching to a balanced low glycemic index diet helps stabilize blood sugar levels. This means eating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish, dairy products, and healthy fats. Aim to make gradual changes to your diet so they can become a lifestyle.
- Physical activity increases insulin sensitivity. Both aerobic and weight exercises have shown positive effects on reproductive health. Workouts that are too intense, especially if you are inexperienced, can become demotivating. So start with some small changes such as daily walks or using the stairs.
- Make sure you dedicate enough time to sleep and rest. Adults should sleep at least 7 hours. Chronic sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of developing insulin resistance.
- Consultations with specialists. Sometimes lifestyle changes aren’t enough. Therefore, it is necessary that your condition be monitored not only by a gynecologist, but also by an endocrinologist, who, if necessary, will prescribe treatment.
Insulin resistance, with its implications for reproductive health, poses challenges to women who wish to conceive. However, active lifestyle changes and timely medical attention can greatly improve your chances of getting pregnant.