How does my weight affect my chances of conceiving a baby?

If you are well below or well above a healthy weight, you may have more trouble becoming pregnant.

Being well below a healthy weight could affect your menstrual cycle, which sometimes leads to irregular periods. If you’re not ovulating (releasing an egg) you won’t be able to become pregnant. Your health care provider can suggest strategies to help you slowly gain weight.

Being well above a healthy weight can also affect your menstrual cycle, which sometimes stops ovulation (releasing an egg). Your health care provider can suggest strategies to support you.

For people with a BMI over 30, even a small amount of weight loss may increase the chances of becoming pregnant.

People who are well above a healthy weight can have changes in hormone levels (e.g., lower testosterone), which can cause problems getting or keeping an erection. They may also have a lower sperm count. This can make it harder to conceive a baby.

For more information about what is considered a healthy weight, click here.

Talk with your health care provider if you have concerns about your weight.

Learn more about fertility concerns.