4 Factors That Affect Reproductive Health

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Author Name: Mia Barnes
Date: Tuesday December 25, 2018

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We all know that our family history and lifestyle choices play a leading role in our overall sense of wellbeing. So, when discussing factors that affect reproductive health, it should come as no surprise that these components factor considerably into the development of a woman’s health.

But your body isn’t just shaped by the fundamental elements that you’re already aware of. In fact, there are many hidden reasons why a woman may experience reproductive system-related complications, too.

As societies across the globe begin to pay more attention to women’s health issues, discovering greater information surrounding the reproductive system becomes more pressing. Since this part of a woman’s body is responsible for helping her maintain her sense of health and creating life, it’s vital to analyze the risk factors that can compromise this area of the body.

Below, we’ll delve into the hidden factors that affect reproductive health that you’ll want to know about.

4 Factors That Affect Reproductive Health

A woman’s reproductive system represents a complex yet vital part of her body — which is why actively promoting and ensuring optimal reproductive health at all times is essential.

Unfortunately, there are a few hidden factors that may interfere with a woman’s ability to enjoy the maximum reproductive care and protection that she deserves, including for the following reasons:

1. Geographic Location

You may already be asking yourself, “How can my location have any degree of impact on my reproductive health?” The answer is that where you live — and the quality of your surrounding area — has more of an influence on your overall health than you think.

But what does that mean? It’s not so much where you live that matters as it does the environmental conditions that define the place you call home. Air pollution is strongly linked to fertility and pregnancy complications, making it an issue to consider when it comes to reproductive health.

You likely didn’t have to read this article to know that pollution is dangerous for your health. But while it’s a widely known fact that contamination isn’t great for a person’s daily sense of wellbeing, few are aware of the far-reaching impact of pollution on a woman’s body — namely her reproductive system — too.

2. Socioeconomic Status

A woman’s paycheck may just be one of the hidden factors that affect her reproductive health. In countries without a universal healthcare plan, choosing to seek medical services when a reproductive system issue arises may mean taking away the funds necessary for one’s food expenses, rent, or other daily essentials.

When a woman can’t afford to receive regular check-ups and routine visits with a primary care physician or gynecologist, she’s likely to suffer the consequences in the form a compromised sense of wellbeing.

There’s a reason why rural women are 64% more likely to die during childbirth than those who live in the city. Far too often, rising medical bill costs and lowered medical assistance programs play a significant role in the declining reproductive health experienced by women across the globe.

Fortunately, there are several free and low-cost ways for women to maintain their reproductive health. For instance, practicing Kegel exercises can help strengthen your uterus, bladder, and visceral organs — all of which are vital to a woman’s reproductive system.

3. The Stigma Surrounding Sexual Health

It’s no secret that the media tends to sexualize women — especially when they first hit adulthood. But this growing normalization of women having sex at younger ages coupled with the stigma attached to seeking sexual health services may just be one of the most sneaky factors contributing to reproductive health issues.

We’d say that society needs to take another step forward and remove the stigma surrounding a woman’s decision to pursue sexual health services and education. If a woman feels too shameful or embarrassed to schedule that necessary GYN appointment the second an issue arises, she may develop a problem that can complicate her reproductive system — an issue which can gradually impact her overall health.

4. Reproductive Health Education

Did you know that excessive alcohol intake, high levels of stress, and too much exercise can all contribute to reproductive health problems? While you may have known that one of these factors played a role in women’s health issues, can you honestly say that you knew all three played a hand in reproductive-related issues?

If not, you’re not alone. Far too often, women find themselves unaware of the common reproductive problems and issues that they should be on the lookout for and the necessary measures to prevent them — which is one a lack of education and knowledge on women’s health is one of the sneaky factors that can contribute to reproductive system problems.

The Need for Growing Support

Now that you know more about the factors that affect reproductive health, you may be wondering what to do next. If you take away anything from this article, let it be this — your health is crucial, so make sure to seek care and take advantage of any resources available whenever necessary.

Your reproductive system may seem like a minor part of your overall body, but its impact can be tremendous. When you’re aware of the factors that can cause this system to feel off balance or less-than-ideal, you’re in a better position to fix any unwanted problems and enjoy the sense of wellbeing that you rightfully deserve.

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