Understanding the impacts of stress on infertility
When you are trying to conceive without success, you may feel frustrated and discouraged. David T. Vandermolen MD, MS, our Northern Louisiana fertility center expert, acknowledges how difficult infertility is for our patients and their partners. Our entire team provides compassionate care to assist our patients in managing stress and infertility during the fertility treatment process.
Is there a link between stress and infertility?
Currently, research has not identified a definite, quantitative amount of stress that impairs fertility. However, more severe stress can suppress the hypothalamic and pituitary control of the ovaries and ovulation, and can lead to low post-ovulation progesterone production, intermittent ovulation, or not ovulating at all. There are some studies that indicate that stress can increase the length of time it takes to get pregnant and may disrupt IVF cycles, but quantifying the amount of stress that makes a negative difference is difficult.
On the other hand, developing strong coping skills and managing the difficulties of trying to conceive can improve your general health.
How to cope when trying to conceive
Dr. Vandermolen recognizes the pressure our patients experience as they navigate infertility treatment options. Reducing stress is not only good for increasing your odds of getting pregnant, but also boosts your overall mood and health. Use these tips from our Northern Louisiana fertility center expert to reframe your outlook.
- Don’t stuff your emotions. Pretending that everything is fine when you are falling apart will only make you feel worse. Open up about your feelings with your partner, family, trusted friends or an infertility support group.
- Practice self-care. Remember to be gentle with yourself during this difficult time. Think about how you would talk to a friend in need and turn those kind sentiments into your own internal messages.
- Develop stress-reducing habits. Adding meditation, journaling, mindfulness exercises or yoga to your normal routine will quiet the ruminations and worries that often accompany infertility treatment.
- Find a positive outlet for your energy. Acknowledging your current difficulties is important, but infertility shouldn’t consume every waking moment. Starting a new hobby, volunteering in your area or planning a girls’ trip will allow you to shift your focus, even if only temporarily.
- Consider seeking professional help. Making an appointment with a licensed therapist can offer you an objective perspective on the best way to cope with your frustrations and disappointments related to your struggles with infertility.
The desire to create or expand your family can hijack your entire life if you aren’t careful. Contact our Northern Louisiana fertility center office to schedule an appointment and learn more about the correlation between stress and infertility.