The real connection between stress and infertility

Written by Gordon

Far too many couples facing issues of infertility and reproduction are often told, “It’s all in your head.” Or, “Relax and let nature take its course.” Some even go so far so as to blame the person experiencing the problems (usually the woman of course!) by saying something like, “Of course you can’t get pregnant – look at how tense you are!”

These statements can be very hurtful and downright dismissive. But they can also make one wonder if there is any grain of truth in them.

How much of these statements are true, and how much is pure hype? What is the real connection between stress and infertility, if any? Can be overly stressed and anxious interfere with your fertility levels?

The most recent scientific data available suggests that yes, there actually can be some connections. Stress has an adverse effect on the body that actually seems to set off a chain reaction of sorts. It affects the heart rate and respiratory rate, and the blood and oxygen produced by these two systems are vital for overall health in every cell of the body. Blood that is freshly filtered through the lungs, and oxygen, both work to bring nutrients and antioxidants to the cells, and to flush away toxins, waste, and other such unnecessary elements. When the body is under stress, these toxins are less likely to be moved out of the system as easily.

It’s also strongly believed that hormones like cortisol or epinephrine - which rise and often remain high during times of chronic stress - play a key role in the relationship between stress and fertility levels. Proteins that help a woman with ovulation and that prepare the uterine lining for a fertilized egg are often compromised by both cortisol and epinephrine.

Additionally, when the body is under stress, that precious oxygen and nutrient-rich blood gets diverted from areas such as the reproductive system to the large muscle groups, such as the legs. This prepares the body for that “fight or flight” reaction it often has to stressful or frightening situations.

However, this shouldn’t be taken to mean that if one is feeling stressed then you’re bringing your infertility on yourself. Of course there is a certain amount of anxiety and nervousness that comes with facing an issue such as reproductive challenges; there’s no doubt about that. But what one can do to offset this is to make up one’s mind to face it with courage and conviction, and to do whatever you can to help relieve your stress and anxiety.

Many women respond well to things such as acupuncture and massage therapy. Tense and aching muscles are eased and this creates an overall feeling of well-being. Exercise is also important, as this releases endorphins, the “feel good” hormone in the brain.

But whatever one decides to do, it’s important to remember that sometimes well-meaning advice can backfire and simply add to one’s tension. Your friends and family need to be supportive of you through this difficult time, not make you feel guilty simply because you’re nervous. So while there may be some truth to the connection between stress and infertility, whatever you do, don’t let that make you even more anxious!

Next chapter: How does stress affect fertility?