Can the psychological effects of stress play a role in infertility? Based on existing medical evidence, researchers and physicians are still trying to figure out the answer to this question. Stress factors are thought to play a role in up to 30% of all infertility cases. During stressful situations, stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine rise, which can have a negative impact on fertility. While everyday stressors such as traffic or a large work project are unlikely to have a significant impact on fertility, long-term stress or a major upheaval may. There are a few mechanisms that could be used to accomplish this. Finally, women must take a hard look at their daily stress levels and devise mechanisms to alleviate some of it. This effort will not only benefit a woman’s health but will also improve her ability to conceive.
THE IMPACT OF STRESS
Stress and anxiety have been shown in studies to have an impact on fertility, which can exacerbate the problems you’re already having while trying to conceive. Infertility can be very distressing, and according to one study, infertile women’s anxiety and depression levels were comparable to those of women suffering from cancer, HIV, or chronic pain. Worrying and obsessing about the inability to get pregnant can make it that much harder. According to new research, stress has an impact on fertility. Women who have high levels of alpha-amylase, an enzyme linked to stress, have a harder time conceiving. If stress has an impact on the likelihood of conception, managing it may help.
It’s worth noting that women have gotten pregnant and given birth throughout history, including during wars, famines, and a variety of other stressful situations, demonstrating that conception under duress is possible. Other factors must also be taken into account. Stressed people are more likely to use tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy foods, as well as to sleep irregularly, all of which can make it difficult to conceive. Infertility patients may react to the stress of being unable to conceive by pursuing treatment and procedures aggressively. Others withdraw and isolate themselves from their families, friends, and community. Neither of these extremes is ideal for patients trying to overcome infertility and start a family. Reducing stress is good for your health.
While no one expects patients to go into fertility treatment without being stressed, finding ways to reduce stress while undergoing treatment can be beneficial. Looking for ways to reduce the burden of infertility treatments and medical protocols is beneficial for patients. There are a variety of stress-reduction techniques available; some of the more popular ones recommended to fertility patients include
- Aerobic exercise (may be reduced during treatment)
- Collaboration with experts in stress reduction
- Guided imagery
- Journaling
- Listening to music
- Massage therapy
- Meditation
- Mindfulness
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy
- Self-help books
- Support groups
- Visualization
- Yoga/ Walking
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEEK ASSISTANCE?
While short-term, everyday stress does not appear to be a cause of infertility, recent research suggests that chronic stress has physical consequences that may affect fertility. Infertility is one of the most difficult and stressful issues a person or couple can face. Recognize the emotional complexities of the situation and accept that dealing with fertility issues comes with a certain amount of stress. Chronic stress, on the other hand, is harmful to one’s health and happiness, and it may even contribute to the underlying causes of infertility. If you are looking for the best fertility specialists in Chennai, visit your nearest PFRC branch. Consult with the top Fertility Experts in India.
