Can parasitic infestation increase woman’s fertility ?
According to study based on Tsimane women of Bolivia (published in journal science-from The Week), one of the most fertile women in the world averaging 10 children, after studying 986 women, Scientists says it is possible!
They found different species of helminths-parasitic intestinal worms in most of them. Round worm or Hook worm are seen with most of them.
Those infected with round worm had earlier first births and shorter interval between births. They also had as many as 12 children. In contrast women affected with hook worm had delayed first births and longer intervals between births. They had on an average 7 children.
These opposing affects are likely due to helminth affection affecting immune system, which in turn affects the liklihood of conception