"Obesity and Reproductive Health: Nursing Insights into the Hidden Hormonal Imbalance"

Abstract: Obesity, a rapidly growing global epidemic, has become a major determinant of reproductive health complications in both women and men. The interplay between excess adipose tissue, hormonal imbalance, and metabolic dysfunction creates profound effects on fertility, menstrual regularity, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term reproductive well-being. This review explores the physiological mechanisms through which obesity influences reproductive function, emphasizing the implications for women’s health. It highlights the critical role of nurses in prevention, health education, screening, counselling, and holistic management of obesity-related reproductive disorders. Drawing upon recent literature, this paper advocates for nurse-led interventions in promoting lifestyle modification, reproductive counselling, and evidence-based care strategies. Understanding this relationship is essential for reproductive health nurses to foster fertility, prevent complications, and enhance quality of life among women affected by obesity.