Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 3, 2025

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Obesity and reproduction
Abigail Armstrong1, Marisa Berger, Zain Al-Safi
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
The objective of this review is to highlight the recent literature on how obesity affects reproductive capacity in men and women.
Recent Findings:
The relationship between fertility and obesity is complex and involves the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, neuroendocrine systems and adipose tissue. The exact pathophysiology of how obesity lowers fertility rates is unknown, but is likely multifactorial involving anovulation, insulin resistance and alterations in gonadotropins. In addition, there is controversy on whether oocyte quality or endometrial receptivity plays a larger role in obese infertile women. Data on effects of bariatric surgery and weight loss on obese infertile men and women are mixed.
Summary:
Obesity alters the hormonal profile, gonadotropin secretion, embryo development and in-vitro fertilization outcomes in both men and women.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Obesity
Overview of Lipid Metabolism
Lipolysis: The Breakdown of Lipids:
Lipolysis is the process of breaking down lipids, particularly triglycerides, into glycerol and fatty acids. This process typically occurs in the adipose tissue and is triggered by various hormones, including glucagon and...
Oogenesis
Regression Toward the Mean
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV
Hypodermis

