How Much Does Stress Actually Contribute To Infertlity?
For a lot of couples dealing with issues of infertility and reproduction, they often get told, “It’s all in your head”, or, “relax and let nature take its course.” Some people take it to the point of blaming the individual experiencing the problems (usually the woman in the relationship of course!) – saying something to the effect of, “I’m not surprised you can’t get pregnant – look at how stressed you are about it!”
This approach obviously doesn’t help, and can in fact add to the stress as we get anxious about how anxious we are! These statements can also be very hurtful and downright dismissive to someone who is in a vulnerable emotional state. But we do have to wonder if there is a component of truth to these ideas…
It’s tempting to dismiss these thoughts as old wives tales or grandma’s wisdom, but what is the real connection between stress and infertility, if there is one? If we are overly stressed or anxious, can it actually interfere with our fertility levels?
Is There Any Truth To Stress Causing Infertility?
The most recent scientific data available suggests that yes, stress may well play a role in decreasing our fertility.
Stress has a broad effect on the body that sets of something of a chain reaction in our metabolism. It affects our heart rate and our respiratory rate, and the blood and oxygen produced by these two systems are vital for overall health throughout our 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 therefore, these toxins are less likely to be moved out of the system as easily.
It’s also strongly believed that ‘stress hormones’ like cortisol or epinephrine(adrenalin) – which rise and often remain elevated during times of chronic stress – play a key role in the relationship between stress and our fertility levels. Key proteins that help a woman to ovulate and that prepare the lining of the uterus 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.
So What Does All This Mean For Me?
The information above shouldn’t be taken to mean that if you’re feeling stressed or anxious then you’re necessarily bringing your infertility on yourself. Of course for anyone there is a degree of anxiety and stress that is part of dealing with an issue such as infertility; that much is fairly obvious. But what we can do to effectively deal with this is to make up your mind to face it with all the courage and conviction you can muster, and then to address your stress seperately.
Many women respond positively to things such as acupuncture and massage therapy. Tense and aching muscles are relaxed and this creates an overall feeling of well-being. Exercise is also important, as this releases endorphins, which are the “feel good” hormone in the brain.
But whatever you decide to do, it’s important to remember that sometimes well-meaning advice can backfire and simply add to someone’s tension. Your friends and family need to support 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!
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