While some researchers confirm that a healthy diet play a critical role in fertility, some experts suggest that a healthy lifestyle is just as important. Stress is prevalent in most people’s lives, and managing stress successfully can be a learning process in itself.

Low stress levels have been linked to improved mood, healthy sleep patterns and healthy weight management. Now, researchers are finding an important link between low stress levels and fertility rates, indicating that the mind-body balance is just as important for mother and baby-to-be.

Stress and Ovulation – What Researchers Are Saying

Stress can take its toll on health in a variety of ways, and is often linked to premature aging. High stress work environments or emotional stressors at home can be the precursor to several diseases and health problems including fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, weight gain and vulnerability to cold and flu viruses.  The body’s immune and defense system can quickly break down when stress levels run high.  

Dr. Sarah Berga, a researcher from Emory University’s department of Obstetrics and Gynecology outlines the critical link between stress levels and ovulation. She published her findings in the Fertility and Sterility report in 2003, indicating that women who were producing excessive amounts of cortisol are less likely to become pregnant (Source: iht.com). 

Experts have since continued to find out how chronic stress has a direct impact on infertility and conception. According to FertilityCommunity.com, “Excessive stress may even lead to complete suppression of the menstrual cycle, and this is often seen in female marathon runners, who develop "runner's amenorrhea". In less severe cases, it could cause anovulation or irregular menstrual cycles. When activated by stress, the pituitary gland also produces increased amounts of prolactin, and elevated levels of prolactin could cause irregular ovulation.”

Lowering Stress to Improve Fertility – What are the Options?

Lowering stress levels without resorting to prescription drugs and medication is the best choice for many, and Dr. Berga recommends several different strategies for women who are enduring chronic stress on a regular basis. She recommends trying cognitive behavioral therapy, encouraging women to try adjusting their lifestyle and behaviors for positive outcomes. This may help many women skip often-expensive infertility drugs so that they can benefit from a natural approach in the long-term. Other ways to lower stress include:

Acupuncture – the use of needles to balance out the body’s energy has been used for thousands of years in Ancient Chinese Medicine. Acupuncture has been linked to reducing stress and problems associated with high stress levels such as anxiety, insomnia and poor concentration.

Hypnosis – hypnosis can help some people relax, and may be combined with other natural therapies such as guided image therapy. 

Massage – massage helps boost circulation and cleanse toxin buildup from the body. Massage treatments can help relieve aches and pains, reduce muscle soreness and help reduce stress

Aerobic exercise – walking, jogging and other aerobic activities that elevate the heart rate may also help reduce stress over time. Exercising regularly can improve circulation and increase energy levels, and may ward off poor health and disease as the body becomes strong and fit.

Learn more about infertility treatments and counseling in our information guide, or meet with an IVF specialist in your area to discuss fertility problems and treatment options available.