Obesity is a chronic, prevalent condition defined by abnormal or excessive fat accumulation. It is measured using BMI, which is calculated by dividing weight by height squared. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is normal, under 18.5 is underweight, and over 24.9 is overweight. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is overweight, while above 29.9 is obesity. Obesity is classified into groups: group 1 (BMI 30-34.9) and severe obesity (grade 2) with a BMI above 35.
Is BMI the best measure for obesity? Not entirely. It doesn’t account for factors like muscle mass, fat tissue, water retention, or gender. Though there are limitations, around 600 million adults worldwide are at least overweight.
BMI is key during infertility treatments, such as IVF, egg donation, and artificial insemination, as well as during pregnancy. A higher BMI is linked to negative pregnancy outcomes. In 2019, 52.7% of adults in the EU were overweight, and a higher BMI has been associated with fertility issues.
In fertility, the ideal BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9, and a BMI over 30 decreases success in assisted reproduction. However, many factors affect outcomes, and while a BMI over 30 may impact reproductive success, the exact reasons are unclear. We also don’t know if correcting BMI improves outcomes.
