Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 7: Social media platforms are filled with advice claiming to naturally improve fertility, but health experts have warned that such tips should not replace proper medical evaluation and treatment.

Dr Richika Sahay Shukla, Co-Founder and Medical Director of India IVF Fertility, said healthy lifestyle changes can support reproductive health but cannot cure medical conditions affecting fertility.

She explained that habits such as getting adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and alcohol, exercising regularly and consuming nutritious food can help improve egg and sperm quality. However, she stressed that these measures should complement fertility treatment rather than act as a substitute.

According to Dr Shukla, many couples are delaying medical consultations by following viral internet advice and fertility-related trends without understanding the actual cause of infertility.

She said misconceptions around certain foods, detox plans and supplements are common, with many believing they can reverse fertility problems. However, conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, reduced ovarian reserve due to age, and severe male infertility require medical diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The fertility expert said the biggest risk of relying on online remedies is the loss of valuable time, particularly for women above the age of 35, as fertility naturally declines with age.

She also highlighted the emotional impact of such misinformation, saying many couples end up blaming themselves when lifestyle changes or online remedies do not lead to pregnancy. Fertility, she said, should not become a source of guilt or pressure.

Dr Shukla advised couples to maintain healthy habits while also seeking timely medical guidance. She recommended fertility evaluation for couples under 35 who have been trying to conceive for a year and for those above 35 after six months of trying.

She said basic tests such as semen analysis, hormone evaluation and ultrasound can help identify underlying issues and provide clarity instead of relying on years of guesswork.

Experts reiterated that while a healthy lifestyle is beneficial, timely diagnosis and professional medical advice remain essential for improving fertility outcomes.