Stress and infertility
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Acute stress, caused by a single event (or fear of it), causes the heart to beat faster, increased blood pressure, difficulty breathing, sweaty hands, etc.
Chronic (long term) stress may result in depression, sleep disorders and a weakened immune system.
Stress causes many organs to work harder and increases the production of chemicals in the body, including hormones.
QUESTIONS - ANSWERS
Is stress responsible for my infertility?
Probably not.
Even though infertility causes a substantial amount of stress, there is no evidence that it is a direct cause of infertility.
In some cases, intense stress may disrupt hormone levels and, consequently, cause a delay in or no ovulation. It may disturb a couple’s sexual life.
Does infertility make me stressed?
Maybe.
Many couples in a Fertility Program are very stressed, e.g. cancer patients or those suffering from heart disease.
Sub fertile couples experience stress every month: initially hoping that the woman will conceive and, if she does not, dealing with the disappointment.
Why is infertility stressful?
Most couples plan their lives. They believe that, if they work hard for something, they will achieve it.
When faced with infertility, they feel they have lost this control. Tests and fertility treatments can be physically, emotionally and financially draining.
Infertility can create distance between a couple, hence increasing stress levels. Finally, a couple must sacrifice a lot of time for doctors’ appointments, treatments, etc., robbing time from work or other activities.
What can I do to reduce stress?
• Talk to your partner.
• Realize that you are not alone. Talk to others who have similar fertility problems through counseling or support groups.
• Read books about infertility, you will discover that your feelings are normal and this may help you deal with them.
• Try meditation, yoga or acupuncture.
• Avoid excessive intake of caffeine, alcohol or other stimulants.
• Exercise regularly. It helps release physical and emotional tension.
• Establish a treatment plan with which you feel comfortable.
• Learn as much as you can about the causes of infertility and the treatment options available.
• Clarify what your insurance covers and determine how you are going to fund your treatment.
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After 16 years of trying to have a baby, our dream became reality!
Irini - Babis
Edessa 25/1/2012
