Intimacy issues encompass emotional or physical disconnections between partners that hinder the development of a close relationship. In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sneha Sathe, Clinical Director and Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Mumbai, indicated that these challenges can arise from various factors, including:

• Stress and work-related pressures – Extended working hours, financial concerns, and career obligations can leave couples feeling drained, thereby diminishing both emotional and physical intimacy.
• Hormonal fluctuations – Variations in hormone levels due to stress, medical issues, or lifestyle choices can decrease libido and impact reproductive capabilities.

• Past trauma – Unresolved emotional issues, stemming from previous relationships or personal experiences, can obstruct intimacy.
• Relationship difficulties – Ineffective communication, unresolved disputes, or differing expectations regarding parenthood can create a rift between partners.
• Digital distractions – Overindulgence in screen time, social media, and technology can foster emotional detachment, complicating the prioritization of the relationship.

How intimacy issues affect fertility

1. Heightened stress and anxiety – Challenges with intimacy can be emotionally taxing, leading to chronic stress and anxiety. This can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance of cortisol, prolactin, and gonadotropins, making conception more difficult.

2. Unhealthy coping strategies – Couples facing intimacy challenges may resort to detrimental habits as a means of coping with stress. Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and poor dietary choices can adversely affect fertility by diminishing egg and sperm quality. Furthermore, a lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain, which may further compromise reproductive health.

3. Challenges in relationships and miscommunication - Insufficient dialogue regarding intimacy, expectations, and concerns related to fertility can result in misunderstandings and emotional detachment. Such circumstances may foster feelings of frustration, resentment, and sadness, which in turn adversely affect intimacy, perpetuating a detrimental cycle. A relationship under strain can hinder couples' ability to provide mutual support during their fertility journey.

Read Also: Love Without Limits: A Story That Challenges Tradition

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!