How Body Fat Percentage Affects Fertility in Men and Women

When it comes to fertility, hormones and reproductive health often get all the attention. But one of the most overlooked—yet critical—factors is body fat percentage. Too much or too little body fat can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance needed for conception in both men and women.

At Kalos, we use DEXA Scan San Francisco technology to help clients get a precise understanding of their body composition, including fat distribution and lean mass. This insight is especially valuable for couples trying to conceive.

Here’s how your body fat percentage plays a direct role in fertility—and how DEXA can help you take control.

Why Fat Matters for Hormones and Reproductive Health

Fat tissue isn’t just a passive energy store—it acts like an endocrine organ, influencing:

• Estrogen and testosterone levels
• Insulin sensitivity
• Inflammation
• Leptin production, which signals energy availability to the brain

The result? If your body fat percentage is too high—or too low—your reproductive system can go out of balance, affecting ovulation, sperm production, libido, and overall fertility.

Ideal Body Fat Ranges for Fertility

While exact ranges can vary, here are general guidelines:

GenderOptimal Body Fat for FertilityWomen20–28%Men10–18%

When body fat strays too far outside these ranges, fertility challenges often follow.

In Women: The Impact of Low and High Body Fat

Too Low (<18%)

• Can cause irregular or absent periods (amenorrhea)
• Reduces estrogen levels
• Signals to the body that it's not safe to conceive

Too High (>30%)

• Increases estrogen from fat tissue, leading to hormonal imbalance
• Can impair ovulation
• Increases risk of PCOS and insulin resistance, both major fertility blockers

In Men: The Hidden Effects of Fat on Sperm Quality

Low Body Fat (<8–10%)

• May lower testosterone and reduce libido
• Can negatively affect sperm production

High Body Fat (>22–25%)

• Increases estrogen due to aromatization in fat tissue
• Reduces sperm count and motility
• Increases risk of erectile dysfunction and inflammation

Why DEXA Is the Smartest Way to Track Fertility-Related Fat Levels

Trying to eyeball body fat percentage or rely on scales is a losing game. DEXA Scans give a clinically accurate reading of:

• Total body fat percentage
• Fat distribution (e.g., abdominal vs. gluteal)
• Lean mass vs. fat mass balance
• Visceral fat (a marker of inflammation and metabolic dysfunction)

This information can be used to optimize your body for fertility through targeted nutrition, training, and lifestyle changes—without second-guessing.

How Clients Use DEXA for Fertility Goals

• A couple trying to conceive noticed low lean mass and high visceral fat—after adjusting their training and nutrition, both improved their body comp and hormonal health.
• One female client restored ovulation after bringing her body fat percentage up from 16% to 22%.
• A male client reversed low testosterone and improved sperm parameters by reducing visceral fat and increasing strength training.

Better Body Composition, Better Fertility Outcomes

If you’re trying to conceive—or just want to optimize your hormonal health—knowing your body fat percentage is a non-negotiable starting point. A DEXA Scan in San Francisco gives you the data you need to make informed, science-backed decisions that support fertility and long-term health.

Book Your DEXA Scan in San Francisco at Kalos Today

If you’re ready to take control of your health with the most accurate body composition analysis available, it’s time to book your DEXA scan at Kalos. Whether you’re looking to get lean, build muscle, improve performance, or optimize longevity, our advanced technology and expert guidance will help you get there.

Schedule your scan today at Kalos—your journey to data-driven fitness starts now.

‍