Physical Activity and Body Composition Profile of Infertile and Fertile Women

Background: Identification of body mass and physical activity status in women might be helpful for improving their reproductive health. The current research aimed to analyze and compare the body mass index (BMI) and physical activity level (PAL) in fertile and infertile women. Methods: This descriptive-analytical research was conducted on 150 infertile women who referred to therapeutic centers of Shahrekord to treat infertility and 150 fertile women using field study method. In this regard, the participants filled in a physical activity questionnaire. Their height and weight were measured using Seca stadiometer and digital scale based on standard methods, and subsequently, BMI was calculated and the values were compared. The chi square test was utilized to analyze the data and the significance level was considered P<0.05. Results: The physical activity score of infertile women was estimated to be low in this study which indicates very low PAL in these subjects. The physical activity score of fertile women was estimated to be medium. Significant differences were found in total physical activity between women with and without experience with infertility (P=0.02). The overall prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity in infertile subjects were 8.7%, 26.7%, 34.7%, and 30%, respectively. The prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity in fertile subjects were 29.8%, 40.4%, 17.2%, and 11.3%, respectively. The frequency of overweight and obesity was reported to be significantly higher in infertile subjects (P=0.001). Conclusion: The results from this study emphasize the importance of body composition and creation of interest among women to do exercise and gain normal weight and keep it off to achieve healthy fertility.