If you’re on a fertility journey, one of the things you’ll want to consider is reducing your stress. Research into fertility and conception has shown that experiencing chronic stress can boost overall levels of stress hormones and keep them higher on average. This includes catecholamines, adrenaline, and cortisol.
The biggest problem with an increase in these hormones is that they inhibit the release of GnRH, or gonadotropin releasing hormone. This is the body’s main hormone when it comes to the release and circulation of sex hormones that increase fertility and make conception and pregnancy easier to achieve.
Everyone has some stress in their lives, and it’s normal to have stressful times. But it’s the prolonged, ongoing high levels of stress that can become a problem for anyone trying to have a baby. Additionally, the more someone struggles to conceive the more they may become stressed about their fertility, and that only adds to their stress hormone levels.
There are some complexities surrounding how stress, hormones, and fertility all work together. Reducing stress and getting help for any physical or mental health issues that are causing stress are both very important. The reduction of stress doesn’t guarantee you’ll be able to conceive, but stress reduction can improve your chances.
You can reduce stress in all kinds of ways, and what works for one person might not work for another one. Journaling, yoga, meditation, light exercise, reading, spending time in nature, and other options can all help you feel calmer and more relaxed. Try some different options until you find what you like best.
Working with your fertility doctor can also help you alleviate stress with plenty of information on the steps you can take to increase fertility chances. Through following your doctor’s advice and focusing on stress reduction, you’ll be more prepared to start or grow your family. It can take time, but stress reduction often translates to big benefits.
We welcome the opportunity to answer any questions you may have about your fertility treatment. Here at the Fertility Institute of San Diego, you will be treated with compassion and care. At larger fertility clinics, patients can feel like a number. However, we are different. We realize that you’re a unique individual and we always treat you that way. We take great pride in being a boutique practice, where a single physician who knows everything about your case treats you. Contact us today to get started!
