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South NJ Newborn Photographer | 8 Things That Could Be Affecting Your Fertility

South NJ Newborn Photographer | 8 Things That Could Be Affecting Your Fertility

Talking about infertility in my photography business is important because it allows me to connect with clients on a deeply personal level. Many individuals and couples facing infertility may feel isolated and alone in their struggles. By addressing this sensitive topic, I create a safe and supportive space for them, showing empathy and understanding. This can build trust and a stronger emotional connection, making clients feel more comfortable and valued. Additionally, it helps raise awareness and reduce the stigma around infertility, fostering a community of support and openness. As a photographer, capturing the emotional journey of those dealing with infertility can also result in powerful, meaningful images that tell their unique story.

Today I’m sharing 8 surprising things that can impact fertility. While some factors like age and genetics cannot be changed, there are many other things that may be affecting your fertility without you even realizing it! 

Before we dive in, I just wanted to offer a quick friendly reminder that while this blog post provides helpful information, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor if you’re having fertility issues. This blog post is meant to be helpful and informative but it is not a substitute for medical advice. 

Okay, now let’s get started!

An infant portrait of a baby girl resting in a tiny crib adorned with flowers and wearing cute headband for her custom newborn session in Florence, New Jersey. south nj newborn photographer

South NJ Newborn Photographer

  1. Stress:

It turns out that the daily stressors of adulting can impact your fertility. Stress can mess with ovulation, disrupt the menstrual cycle, and even decrease sperm count in men.

Consider finding fun ways to reduce your stress levels, such as meditation, yoga, or therapy. Check your local resources for these studios in your area.

According to a study, women with high levels of alpha-amylase, a biomarker for stress, were found to have a lower chance of getting pregnant compared to women with lower levels of the biomarker (Lynch et al., 2014). 

  1. Lack of Sleep:

Getting enough sleep is essential for your overall health, and it also plays a significant role in fertility. A lack of sleep can disrupt hormonal balance, decrease sperm count, and even cause irregular periods.

A 2022 study found that women who slept for less than six hours per night had a higher risk of infertility compared to women who slept for seven to eight hours per night (Poli et al., 2018). 


If you’re struggling to get enough sleep right now due to maybe having a new baby or your work schedule, consider setting a consistent sleep schedule, asking for help from your partner or family members, and taking short naps when the baby sleeps. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine and delegating tasks can also help you get more rest. Remember, it’s important to take care of yourself too!

  1. Poor Diet:

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is crucial for your fertility. Foods that are high in processed sugars and unhealthy fats can interfere with hormonal balance and decrease sperm count. 

An easy way to get more fruits and veggies into your diet is to buy them frozen. Frozen fruits and veggies are just as nutritious as buying them fresh, but they don’t go bad as quickly.

Additionally, many grocery stores now offer pre-chopped or pre-washed produce options that make healthy eating even easier!

My favorite way to get in my daily greens is preparing myself a yummy kale salad and/or green juice!

  1. Environmental Toxins:

Toxins in the environment, such as pesticides, lead, and phthalates, can interfere with fertility in both men and women. Limit your exposure to these toxins by choosing organic produce, using natural cleaning products, and avoiding plastic containers with BPA.

For example: I make my own window cleaner with equal parts water and vinegar and a squirt of dish soap and use that to do my semi-daily cleaning of windows and mirrors around the house!

You can read more on this study here, it’s quite interesting! https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6396757/

  1. Alcohol:

While moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe, heavy drinking can have a significant impact on fertility. Heavy alcohol consumption can decrease sperm count, disrupt hormonal balance, and increase the risk of miscarriage. 

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5504800/

  1. Over-Exercising:

I see you, you Lulu wearing Pelaton enthusiast. 😉  

Sure, exercise is great for your overall health, but did you know that too much of it can actually be harmful to your fertility?  Over-exercising can mess with your hormonal balance, decrease sperm count, and even cause irregular periods in women. So, don’t go overboard with your fitness routine. Aim for a moderate exercise routine that includes a mix of cardio and strength training. 

  1. Poor dental health

As if we didn’t have enough reasons to go to the dentist regularly, now we can add “helping with fertility” to the list!

Poor dental health and gum disease have been linked to fertility problems in both men and women. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation, which can affect fertility.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8812457/

  1. Vitamin D deficiency

This sunshine vitamin is a big player with fertility, regulating hormone levels and making sure those little eggs and swimmers develop healthily. If you’re lacking in vitamin D, your fertility might suffer!

So, get out there and soak up some sun or take a supplement.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22275473/
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-Consumer/ 

Personally, I continued to take a multivitamin after having my children. Also, requesting to do routine bloodwork with your PCP is always a great idea!  


Fertility is a complex issue, and many factors /can impact your ability to conceive. By being aware of these 8 lesser known things that can affect your fertility, you can take steps to improve your chances of getting pregnant. 

A close-up of a sleeping baby girl resting on her side covered in a blanket wearing headband and cute outfit for her professional baby portraits taken in Hainesport, New Jersey. South nj newborn photographer

South NJ Newborn Photographer

If you’re looking for beautiful and meaningful photography to capture your journey to motherhood, I invite you to check out my birth photography portfolio.

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Want to learn more about our newborn sessions? Check out our portfolio here.

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South NJ Newborn Photographer

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