Lori D. Homa, MD: Addressing Fertility Concerns

Fertility concerns is an all too common feeling for many prospective parents, particularly with the unknown over the impact COVID-19 might have on fertility.

That is why it is crucial for both potential parents to receive a full fertility check as they go through the process of trying to conceive.

In an interview with HCPLive®, Lori D. Homa, MD, Allegheny Health Network, discussed the importance of identifying any potential problems with fertility early on in the process.

Homa said even with some level of unknown regarding COVID-19, there are several environmental factors that can impact fertility, including cigarette or marijuana use, alcohol use, and for men specifically avoiding heat and excessive biking.

“One of the take homes that I say is that good health is important, but overall there’s no one specific magical thing that either helps or hurts environmentally, except for some of the main health issues that affects fertility,” Homa said. “Overall, just remaining healthy and having a good, regular diet are the main features.”

Homa also addressed the concerns and misinformation that has spread regarding the COVID-19 vaccine’s impact on fertility, saying that the vaccines do not increase the risk of infertility and contracting the virus while pregnant could result in a number of negative outcomes.