I’ve heard that there’s a link between stress and infertility. Is this true?
First, the cause: stress affects your body in many ways, and one of them is by altering your neurochemical make-up. These chemical changes can affect the maturation and release of the egg, according to some sources. Stress can also cause spasms in the fallopian tubes and uterus, affecting implantation. In men, stress can affect sperm count and motility. Stress can also lead to erectile dysfunction. All of this, of course, can factor into infertility. (Read this article for more information on exactly how stress affects your fertility.)
Additionally, stress can result from infertility. The inability to conceive a child that is desperately wanted, the process of discerning the root of the problem, and the often painful and emotionally distressing treatments can lead to depression and anxiety. In fact, one study found that 40% of women dealing with infertility experienced depression or anxiety as well—the same rate as women dealing with heart disease or cancer. The stress caused by infertility tests and treatments, as well as the anxiety caused by the issue itself, can lead to more negative effects of stress, and a downward spiral.
While stress management alone doesn’t guarantee fertility, there is encouraging evidence that it can help. Several studies show a dramatic decrease in infertility when couples are treated psychologically as well as physically, for example.
Yoga, meditation and journaling are just three techniques that have many positive effects on the mind and body. If you’d like to reliever some of the stress that you’re experiencing in your life, the stress reliever personality test can help you find stress relievers that are likely to fit best with your personality and lifestyle. Also, if you’re dealing with infertility, you may want to talk to your doctor about holistic treatments that can help. (Scroll down for more resources.)
Sources:
HolisticOnline.com and Newsweek.
