Well-Supported
- Smoking — associated with reduced fertility and poorer treatment outcomes in both partners.
- Heavy alcohol use — associated with reduced fertility.
- Extreme BMI (very low or very high) — associated with ovulatory disruption and treatment challenges.
Moderately Supported
- Regular moderate exercise supports overall reproductive health; excessive endurance training can disrupt cycles.
- Chronic sleep deprivation and unmanaged chronic stress may affect hormonal regulation.
- Environmental exposures (certain plastics, pesticides) are areas of active research.
Emerging or Mixed Evidence
Popular supplements, restrictive diets, and specific herbal protocols are areas where evidence is limited or mixed. Discuss any supplement with your clinician, especially during cycles.
Perspective
Lifestyle optimization is worthwhile but rarely the sole determinant of outcome. It does not substitute for medical evaluation when clinical concerns are present.