- Rising infertility rates are now affecting young adults, not just older couples.
- Physical inactivity is emerging as a leading contributor in India.
- Sedentary lifestyles disrupt hormones, weight balance, and mental well-being—all key to fertility.
Infertility is increasingly impacting individuals in their 20s and 30s, raising alarm among medical professionals across India. While diet, environmental toxins, and stress are contributing factors, physical inactivity stands out as a major and preventable cause.
In women, sedentary habits exacerbate disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), disrupting ovulation and menstrual cycles. In men, low activity levels can impair testosterone production and reduce sperm quality.
Modern Lives, Hidden Costs: How Lack of Movement is Undermining Fertility in Young Indians
The health risks of inactivity are not limited to physical outcomes—mental well-being plays a crucial role in fertility. Chronic stress and anxiety, often worsened by a lack of exercise, interfere with hormonal regulation and sexual function. Regular movement has been shown to stabilize mood, lower cortisol levels, and promote healthier cycles in both sexes.
Urbanisation, work-from-home trends, and digital convenience have made sedentary behavior a norm, especially among India’s younger population. Long commutes, desk jobs, and entertainment rooted in screens contribute to a lifestyle where movement is minimal and often optional.
Infertility, once a taboo topic, is still largely under-discussed in India, especially among unmarried or young individuals. This stigma delays diagnosis and treatment, leaving many unaware of how reversible some causes—like inactivity—actually are. Awareness campaigns and preventive health education are urgently needed to break this silence.
On a positive note, even moderate, consistent physical activity—such as brisk walking, yoga, or cycling—can restore hormonal balance, improve metabolism, and enhance reproductive health. Doctors recommend at least 30 minutes of daily activity to support not just general health, but also fertility outcomes.
In the battle against infertility, simple lifestyle changes like incorporating daily movement can make a profound difference. Early action is vital.
As Hippocrates once said, “Walking is man’s best medicine.” In today’s context, it may also be one of the most underestimated fertility boosters.
