Episode Details
Back to EpisodesHow Does Cholesterol Affect Your Chances of Having a Baby
Description
Cholesterol, while essential for hormone production and overall health, can negatively impact fertility when levels are imbalanced. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often dubbed "bad cholesterol," can contribute to cardiovascular issues and inflammation, both of which may disrupt reproductive processes. In women, elevated cholesterol can interfere with ovarian function, leading to irregular ovulation or poor egg quality, while also increasing the risk of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common cause of infertility. In men, excessive cholesterol can impair sperm production, motility, and quality by causing oxidative stress and damaging testicular tissue. Conversely, very low cholesterol levels may reduce the availability of hormones like testosterone and estrogen, which are critical for reproductive health, highlighting the need for a balanced cholesterol profile to support fertility.