Are You Infertile? The Reason Could Possibly Be Stress, Expert Speaks

Amongst all the other non-communicable diseases like diabetes and blood pressure that are turning into an epidemic, stress is another such problem that is on a rise. Most people tend to think that stress is just in our mind and doesn't affect our body and they couldn't be more wrong. Stress also makes chemical changes in our body and affects our bodies in ways you can't apprehend. Apart from your weight, did you know stress can also affect your fertility? Believe it or no, stress does have a big role to play in terms of the well-being of your fertility. Planning to Get Pregnant? Have These 8 Fertility-Boosting Foods to Improve Your Chances of Conceiving.

A study says evaluated the relationship between stress and infertility says, 'Women with infertility report elevated levels of anxiety and depression, so it is clear that infertility causes stress. What is less clear, however, is whether or not stress causes infertility. The impact of distress on treatment outcome is difficult to investigate for a number of factors, including inaccurate self-report measures and feelings of increased optimism at treatment onset. However, the most recent research has documented the efficacy of psychological interventions in lowering psychological distress as well as being associated with significant increases in pregnancy rates. A cognitive-behavioural group approach may be the most efficient way to achieve both goals.' How To Get Pregnant: 7 Things That Will Help You Conceive Faster.

We asked Ms Pooja Duggal, Health Coach & Founder of Healthhunt about her thoughts on stress. She said, 'Stress is a bigger problem or mother of all concerns in the modern day lives, very little has been done to address it, and even lesser people are following the right things to tackle stress as it is unavoidable. A series of event or seminars to educate the masses about stress and general wellbeing is the need of the hour, Future of Wellness is in the hands of individuals will a collective conscience. Hence, Future of Wellness has been introduced in India to come face to face with the modern day evils regarding our wellness.'

How does stress exactly affect fertility?

While explaining the effects of stress on fertility Ms Pooja says, 'Studies time and again have proven that stress can lower fertility levels in both men and women. Stress hormones can inhibit secretion of GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone), the hormone responsible for the release of sex hormones. This can reduce the sperm count in men and affect ovulation cycle in women. Additionally, chronic stress may also cause lack of libido in both men and women. Another fascinating thing you must know is that the body rejects pregnancy when its stressed as stress can be risky for the growth and development of the fetus.'

Infertility has become a common problem these days and the worst part is that it affects the mental health of couples big time! A study says, 'Infertility is often a silent struggle. Patients who are struggling to conceive report feelings of depression, anxiety, isolation, and loss of control. Depression levels in patients with infertility have been compared with patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. It is estimated that 1 in 8 couples (or 12% of married women) have trouble getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy. Despite the prevalence of infertility, the majority of infertile women do not share their story with family or friends, thus increasing their psychological vulnerability.'

(Reference: The relationship between stress and infertility)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 20, 2018 07:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).