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Male and Female Infertility: What is the Impact of Stress?

 

Infertility is an overwhelming condition affecting men and women across the globe. While advancements in medical technology have blessed humans with infertility treatment in India, the journey of undergoing one can be filled with mixed emotions.

There are several factors contributing to the rise in infertility. However, one potential cause that has gained a lot of attention recently is stress. Several studies state that those with impacted mental health or a depression history are more likely to suffer from infertility. In this blog, we will briefly understand the impact of stress on fertility.

 

How Does Stress Affect Female Infertility?

 

Disruption of Ovulation:

Chronic stress can disturb the release of hormones important for ovulation, like FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone), interfering with the process. Thus, many females might experience anovulatory cycles, which significantly reduces their chances of becoming pregnant.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles:

Excessive stress can disturb the menstrual cycles or might even lead to amenorrhea (no menstruation). The consequences make it challenging for females to predict their fertile window, ultimately making conception even more difficult.

Decreased Libido:

Libido is a medical word used to describe one’s desire for intercourse. Higher stress levels can significantly decrease a person’s interest in sexual activity, reducing the frequency and, ultimately, the chances of becoming pregnant.

Hormonal Imbalances:

Stress increases the production of prolactin in the body. It is a hormone generally related to breastfeeding. The increase in levels of these hormones can disturb the process of ovulation, ultimately impacting fertility and making it difficult for women to conceive.

 

How Does Stress Affect Male Fertility?

 

Libido and erectile dysfunction the decrease in libido is a common effect of excessive stress, even in males. In addition, it can also affect erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Such issues can affect the quality and frequency of intercourse, ultimately making conception difficult.

Sperm quantity and quality: High-stress levels can adversely impact fertility in males. Several studies state that chronic stress can decrease sperm count and quality in males. Moreover, hormonal imbalances like increased cortisol levels or others associated with stress can disturb the normal functioning and production of sperm.

 

How Can You Cope with Stress During Your Infertility Journey?

 

There are several ways men and women can cope with stress throughout their infertility journey. Some of the most common ways suggested by infertility specialists in India are:

  • Look for emotional support
  • Body-mind intervention
  • Educating yourself
  • Setting and meeting practical/realistic goals
  • Lifestyle modifications

Conclusion

 

Stress releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, the human body’s natural way of dealing with challenges. While stress can help react to threats, chronic stress, generally because of life’s situation, can have adverse effects on one’s health and fertility. It can disturb the average production and release of hormones in women and can significantly impact sperm count and quality in men.

Therefore, addressing it correctly becomes crucial. To increase the chances of conception, you can seek emotional support, implement stress-reduction strategies in your routine life, and make necessary lifestyle modifications.

In addition, people who have infertility, irrespective of the reason, can look for infertility treatment options suitable to their condition. It can include IVF, IUI, ICSI, and more. To learn more, contact or visit the best IVF hospital in India.

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