Obesity can lead to many serious health conditions. In addition, it negatively impacts the sexual life of men, most notably causing erectile dysfunction or impotence. For women, obesity can affect both sexual health and fertility.
1. The Harmful Effects of Obesity on Sexual and Reproductive Health
1.1 For Both Genders
Overweight couples often find it difficult to engage in sexual activities in more complex positions due to the excess fat around the abdomen and buttocks, which can obstruct the penetration of the penis into the vagina. Therefore, to improve their sex life, overweight couples should explore sexual positions that are most comfortable for them, especially if they cannot use weight loss therapies.
Obese individuals are more prone to sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancies. They may engage in sexual activities less frequently than others and face a higher sexual risk. A study in the U.S. showed that obese women are four times more likely to experience unintended pregnancies because they have fewer opportunities to prepare for intercourse. They also tend to use fewer sugary drinks or other contraceptive methods.
Obesity is often associated with laziness and a lack of physical activity, which can affect sexual life. In men, the harmful effects of obesity significantly reduce the duration they can maintain an erection, thus lowering their ability to achieve sexual pleasure compared to others.
1.2 For Men
Obese men often suffer from erectile dysfunction and impotence at higher rates. Obesity-related issues, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes, block blood flow to various parts of the body, including the penis, leading to erection problems.
Obesity also increases a substance called sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). High levels of SHBG reduce sexual desire, cause pain, and make it difficult to achieve orgasm. Additionally, being overweight leads to fatigue and stimulates the development of male breasts.
In men, obesity is directly linked to infertility because it affects sperm. Studies have shown that men who follow an obesity-causing diet have lower sperm quality than normal men. Specifically, men who regularly consume high levels of saturated fats have 35% fewer sperm and 38% lower sperm concentration than men of normal weight who maintain a healthy diet.
1.3 For Women
In obese women, abnormalities in their eggs are more likely to occur, making it harder for them to conceive. A study at a hospital in India found that eggs from obese women had more chromosomal abnormalities than those of other women. They are more likely to have difficulty getting pregnant and experience a higher rate of miscarriage compared to women with normal weight. Additionally, obese women are more likely to face polycystic ovary syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles, and thyroid issues.
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Nguồn tham khảo: webmd.com
2. Obese Women and "Intimacy"
For women who are curvy (but not yet obese), their sexual desires and fertility remain normal. However, for women who are overweight and obese, with an excessively large waistline, there is often an imbalance in their hormones caused by excess fat in the body. This imbalance leads to disruption of several sex hormones. Some women may experience reduced libido, while others may actually have increased sexual desire due to a decrease in estrogen levels, causing the adrenal glands to produce more testosterone as a compensatory mechanism.
Obesity in women can affect body image, reduce sexual attraction for their partner, and make it difficult to change positions during sex, which can make intimacy feel monotonous. Overweight individuals tend to engage in sexual activity less frequently than those with normal weight because their thick layer of fat makes them more passive and reluctant to move due to the heaviness of their bodies. The thick abdominal fat layer can also obstruct penetration and reduce friction. As a result, most obese women experience reduced sexual pleasure.
Furthermore, the ability to conceive in obese women is more difficult than in women with a healthy weight. Obese women often suffer from metabolic disorders in fat, which inhibit hormones that trigger ovulation, causing irregular menstrual cycles and ovaries producing fewer, immature eggs. This leads to poor fertility, a higher failure rate of conception, and a greater likelihood of miscarriage compared to women with normal weight.
Obese women often experience menstrual disorders; those with grade 2 obesity or higher may lose their period, and some may develop polycystic ovary syndrome or excessive hair growth. In some cases, thyroid abnormalities can further complicate the ability to conceive.
3. Obese Men and "Intimacy"
Obese men often suffer from metabolic syndrome, leading to a decrease in male hormones (testosterone) while increasing female hormones (estrogen). This imbalance results in reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and a decreased ability to produce sperm. It also causes small vein blockages, making it difficult for blood to flow properly, thus interfering with the process of erection and leading to impotence.
Reduced testosterone levels lower fertility and increase the risk of prostate cancer. As a result, obese men often feel self-conscious and anxious, leading to poorer sexual activity compared to their previous state before obesity.
Additionally, obese men may experience a condition called "buried penis syndrome," where the penis is hidden beneath the folds of skin due to excessive fat. The abdominal fat and skin of obese men can make the penis appear smaller, or even completely covered, creating a significant obstacle to sexual activity.
While some studies show a connection between sexual dysfunction and obesity, this does not mean that all obese individuals experience sexual problems. On the other hand, some studies have suggested that obesity is not necessarily a risk factor for sexual dysfunction.
If you are overweight or obese and experiencing reduced libido or dissatisfaction with your sex life, it is important to consult a doctor to discuss any possible connections between weight and sexual health that may need to be addressed.
Women facing sexual health issues can register for the Female Sexual Dysfunction Consultation and Examination Package at Vinmec International General Hospital. This package provides consultation and treatment for sexual dysfunction, including:
• Issues with libido
• Issues with arousal
• Issues with orgasm
• Painful intercourse (temporary or long-term) or vaginal spasms
This is a brand-new package in Vietnam proposed by Vinmec, aimed at addressing the sensitive yet crucial issue of sexual health. The package is carried out by a team of highly trained and skilled experts who have been trained abroad. It includes various examinations and tests with advanced and accurate equipment, providing the most effective treatment solutions for patients.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
