Believe it or not, climate change and fertility are very closely linked. Extreme weather conditions, increasing pollutants, and food scarcity directly impact reproductive health. It is important for couples to understand fertility health risks to make informed choices and plan for their future.
The fertility rate refers to the number of births per 1,000 women of childbearing age in a given year. On the other hand, Total Fertility Rate is a related metric that measures the average number of children a woman can bear in her lifetime. As of 2025, the TFR in India was recorded at 1.9 births per woman. This figure falls below the replacement level of 2.1 according to a report by the United Nations Population Fund. The decreasing fertility rate is due to several factors, including:
While all these factors influence fertility rates, rising global temperatures and pollution have a hidden impact on future generations.
Global warming is causing a significant rise in temperatures in India, causing heatwaves, droughts, erratic monsoons, and floods. In fact, temperatures in India have risen to more than 0.9°C over the past decade, causing significant fertility health risks. Not only does extreme heat affect female fertility, but it also affects male reproductive health.
The male reproductive system is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Ideally, for optimal sperm production, the testicles must remain 2-4° cooler than the rest of the body. A rise in temperatures can result in
Rising temperatures increase fertility health risks for women. For example, extreme heat can cause hormonal imbalance, leading to several fertility problems, including irregular periods, PCOS, and thyroid issues. Further, high temperatures can also prevent implantation of the fertilized egg, preventing pregnancies.
Extreme heat also affects pregnancies and childbirth, increasing the risk of miscarriages, pre-term birth, preeclampsia, hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes, and low birth weight.
Climate change increases pollution levels, directly impacting reproductive health. Air pollutants and toxins interfere with hormone regulation, affecting fertility in both men and women. Further, toxins such as BPA and phthalates can lead to endocrine disruptions, causing interruptions in hormonal functions.
With fertility health risks on the rise, it is important to protect your family and future generations from fertility challenges. Staying alert, remaining active, and eating healthy are some of the proactive measures you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Kinder Hospital, a leading fertility hospital in Bangalore, is proudly part of a global endeavor to protect fertility and promote reproductive health awareness in an era of climate change. Our advanced technology, well-equipped laboratories, and clinical infrastructure, along with a team of Bangalore’s finest fertility specialists, ensure safe, ethical, and effective fertility care with consistently high success rates. Schedule your appointment today with Kinder Hospital Bangalore and experience fertility care with a difference.
Yes, extreme weather conditions like rising heat can affect sperm quality, disrupt hormones, and also affect egg quality and menstrual cycles, thereby affecting fertility.
Water and air contain pollutants like BPA that can affect pregnancy outcomes and raise fertility health risks.
Couples can avoid extreme exposure to heat, choose to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and seek timely medical guidance to protect their reproductive health.
