Stress is a common experience in today’s fast-paced world. However, when it comes to pregnancy, stress can be more than just a temporary discomfort. Increasing research suggests that stress before conceiving can impact not only a woman’s ability to get pregnant but also the health of the pregnancy itself.
How stress affects conception?
1. Hormonal imbalance:
- Stress triggers the release of cortisol, the hormone that can disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones like oestrogen and progesterone.
- This imbalance can interfere with ovulation, making it harder to conceive.
- Irregular menstrual cycles and difficulty conceiving may be associated with chronic stress.
2. Impact on menstrual cycle:
- Chronic stress can lead to irregular menstrual cycles or even missed periods.
- This irregularity makes it difficult to predict ovulation, further complicating conception efforts.
3. Reduced libido:
- Stress can reduce sexual desire, leading to less frequent intercourse.
- This reduction in sexual activity lowers the chances of conception.
4. Reduced sperm quality:
- Stress can negatively impact sperm quality and quantity in men.
- Elevated cortisol levels can reduce sperm count, motility and morphology.
- Stress-related factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and poor diet can also contribute to reduced sperm quality.
5. Weakened immune system:
- Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to infections and inflammation.
- A weakened immune system can affect fertility and increase the risk of pregnancy complications.
- Managing stress and maintaining a healthy immune system are important for preconception health.
Stress and early pregnancy
1. Increased risk of miscarriage:
- High levels of stress before conception have been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage during early pregnancy.
- The reason is not fully understood but stress-related factors may contribute to placental problems or foetal development issues.
2. Impact on embryo development:
- Stress can affect the quality of the eggs released, potentially leading to issues with embryo implantation and development.
- This could result in complications during early pregnancy.
3. Long-term effects on the child:
- Some studies suggest that stress before conception can have long-term effects on the child’s health.
- These effects include an increased risk of developmental issues and behavioural problems.
Managing stress before conception
- Adopt relaxation techniques: Practising yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels. These techniques are especially beneficial for women who may be facing societal pressures related to family planning.
- Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity helps manage stress and improves overall well-being. Activities like walking, swimming or even traditional Indian dance forms can be enjoyable ways to stay active.
- Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains supports the body in managing stress. Traditional Indian foods like dal, leafy greens and seasonal fruits provide essential nutrients that can help in stress management.
- Adequate sleep: Ensuring 7-8 hours of sleep each night is crucial for reducing stress levels. Establishing a bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can improve sleep quality.
- Seek support: Talking to a counsellor or joining a support group can provide emotional relief. Family and friends can also be a great source of support during the preconception phase. If stress is significantly impacting your life, you can also reach out to your healthcare provider.
While more research is needed to fully understand the impact of stress on pregnancy, evidence suggests that chronic stress before conception may influence fertility and increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications. By managing stress through healthy lifestyle choices and seeking support when needed, individuals can improve their chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy.
Sources:
WebMD
The Bump
Pacific Fertility Center
