There are several factors that can affect a person’s fertility or their ability to have a baby in the future. It’s important to understand these risk factors, even as a teenager, to make informed choices about your health and well-being.
Age is a significant factor. As people get older, their fertility decreases, particularly for women. Women are born with a certain number of eggs, and as women age, the quantity and quality of eggs decrease, making it harder to get pregnant.
Certain medical conditions can also impact fertility. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and reproductive organ abnormalities can make it more difficult to conceive.
Lifestyle choices can play a role as well. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can harm reproductive health and decrease fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, as being underweight or overweight can affect hormone levels and interfere with ovulation.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can have long-term consequences for fertility. Infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea, if left untreated, can cause damage to the reproductive organs and increase the risk of infertility.
Environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, and toxins, can also affect fertility. It’s important to be mindful of these factors and take necessary precautions to minimize exposure when possible.
Being aware of these risk factors empowers teenagers to make informed decisions about their health and take steps to protect their fertility in the future. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions regarding your fertility.
