Asthma is a common chronic condition that affects the respiratory system, but its impact isn’t limited to the lungs. Recent studies suggest that asthma may also influence fertility, particularly in women. While it’s possible to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy with asthma, the condition could play a role in delaying conception or complicating fertility treatments.
If you or your partner have asthma and are planning to start a family, understanding how this condition could affect your reproductive health is important. In this blog, we explore what current research says about asthma and its potential link to fertility.
Understanding Asthma Beyond the Lungs
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes the airways to swell and narrow, resulting in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.. It’s triggered by allergens, environmental factors, stress, infections, and other irritants. However, asthma is also a systemic inflammatory condition, meaning it can affect various parts of the body—including the reproductive system.
Chronic inflammation and immune system dysregulation, which are hallmarks of asthma, can interfere with hormones, ovulation, and even the uterine environment necessary for conception.
Asthma and Female Fertility: What the Studies Say
1. Longer Time to Conceive
Several studies have found that women with asthma may take longer to get pregnant. A Danish study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that women with asthma were more likely to take over a year to conceive compared to women without asthma. The delay was particularly noticeable in women who were not using asthma medication, suggesting that poorly controlled asthma could worsen fertility issues.
This extended time to pregnancy may be linked to systemic inflammation caused by asthma, which may affect ovulation or make the endometrial lining less receptive to embryo implantation.
2. Increased Risk of Infertility
Some studies indicate that women with asthma may have an increased risk of infertility. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that women with asthma had a approximately 30% increased risk of infertility compared to those without. This remained true even after adjusting for body weight and age.
The reason behind this isn’t completely understood, but inflammation, altered hormone levels, and immune imbalances may play a part.
3. Effect on IVF and Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Asthma may also impact outcomes in assisted reproduction, such as IVF. Some studies show that women with asthma might require more cycles of fertility treatment or higher doses of medication to conceive. However, the success rate is not significantly different for those with well-controlled asthma.
This reinforces the importance of good asthma management during the fertility journey.
Does Asthma Affect Male Fertility?
While most studies focus on women, asthma may also impact male fertility. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress associated with asthma could potentially reduce sperm quality or motility. However, the evidence here is limited and less conclusive.
Some small studies suggest a possible link between asthma and decreased sperm concentration, but larger and more comprehensive studies are needed to establish a clear connection.
How Asthma Might Influence Fertility
Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the link between asthma and reduced fertility:
1. Systemic Inflammation
Asthma is characterized by chronic inflammation, which could disrupt the delicate hormonal balance required for ovulation and implantation.
2. Hormonal Disruptions
Inflammation and immune dysfunction may interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, affecting menstrual cycles and ovulation.
3. Hypoxia (Low Oxygen Levels)
Severe or uncontrolled asthma can reduce oxygen supply to tissues, including the ovaries and uterus, possibly impacting fertility.
4. Asthma Medications
Most asthma medications, particularly inhaled corticosteroids, are both safe and necessary for managing the condition. However, long-term use of oral corticosteroids may impact hormone levels and ovulation in rare cases.
Well-Controlled Asthma Can Minimize Risks
The most important takeaway from current research is that well-controlled asthma is less likely to affect fertility.Women with asthma who manage their condition effectively and adhere to prescribed treatments generally experience fertility outcomes similar to those without asthma.
Tips for Managing Asthma While Trying to Conceive:
- Continue prescribed medications: Don’t stop asthma medications without medical guidance.
- Identify and avoid triggers: Dust, pollen, cold air, smoke, and stress can worsen asthma.
- Get regular checkups: Work with both your gynecologist and pulmonologist.
- Monitor symptoms: Track asthma flare-ups, menstrual cycles, and ovulation patterns.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can promote both respiratory and reproductive health.
Asthma During Pregnancy
Once pregnant, asthma management becomes even more important.Uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy has been linked to the following complications:
- Preeclampsia
- Low birth weight
- Preterm labor
- Gestational hypertension
Most asthma medications are safe to use in pregnancy, and avoiding severe asthma attacks is crucial for the health of both mother and baby.
Lifestyle Tips to Support Fertility and Asthma Control
Adopting a few lifestyle changes can benefit both your lungs and your fertility:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity can worsen both asthma symptoms and fertility issues.
2. Quit Smoking
Smoking is harmful to lung function and reproductive health in both men and women.
3. Manage Stress
Stress is a known asthma trigger and can also impact hormone balance.
4. Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, fruits, and vegetables may reduce inflammation.
5. Track Ovulation
Use apps or ovulation kits to better understand your cycle and identify any irregularities.
When Should You See a Specialist?
If you’ve been attempting to conceive for more than 12 months (or over 6 months if you’re 35 or older) and have asthma, it might be time to seek advice from a fertility specialist. Also seek help if:
- Your asthma is poorly controlled or worsening.
- Your menstrual cycles are irregular.
- You’ve had multiple unsuccessful IVF or IUI cycles.
A multidisciplinary approach involving a pulmonologist, gynecologist, and fertility expert can help you manage asthma while improving your chances of conception.
Conclusion
Asthma may play a subtle yet important role in fertility, particularly when it is poorly controlled. While it may extend the time to conception or slightly increase the risk of infertility, many people with asthma conceive naturally or through fertility treatments with the right care and management.
Taking control of your asthma not only improves your quality of life but may also enhance your fertility journey. If you’re planning to start or grow your family, don’t let asthma stand in your way—just ensure you’re working with the right support team.