Under stress, the brain perceives the environment as unsuitable for reproduction.
It then naturally slows down fertility-related processes, as a protective mechanism.
Added to this is a significant psychological impact: the difficulty of conceiving itself becomes a major source of anxiety... which reinforces the blockage.
Chronic stress activates the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, increasing cortisol, which inhibits the HPG (hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal) axis, key to reproduction. This disrupts sexual hormone production, reducing fertility and impairing ovulation in women and spermatogenesis in men.
In periods of prolonged stress, the body also mobilizes more cholesterol to produce cortisol via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This biological priority mechanism can redirect resources away from the synthesis of other steroid hormones such as DHEA, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
Fewer resources are therefore available for fertility, which can contribute to hormonal disorders, reduced libido and irregular cycles in women.
In women
It can lead to ovulation disorders, irregular cycles or even amenorrhea.
Studies have shown that stress can suppress the HPG axis, leading to ovulatory dysfunctions, reduced sexual steroidogenesis (synthesis of steroid hormones, i.e. those originating from cholesterol: gynecological hormones, estrogen, progesterone, and male hormones, testosterone) and reduced fertility in women of childbearing age.
In men
It can reduce sperm quality and quantity.
Psychological stress is associated with reduced sperm concentration, altered sperm morphology and reduced sperm motility. Oxidative stress, linked to an excess of free radicals, also alters gametes DNA, compromising their quality.
Chronic stress also alters sleep quality, disrupting the secretion of leptin (satiety hormone) and ghrelin (hunger hormone), thus contributing to caloric overconsumption. These metabolic disturbances may influence fertility, although the precise mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
"During our first IVF (in vitro fertilization) attempt, I was overwhelmed by anxiety. I felt like everything depended on this cycle. I controlled everything: the dates, the hormones, the results... But inside, I was in a panic. I couldn't sleep because of the stress, I often cried for no reason and I took refuge in food. The result was negative. For the second attempt, I started hypnosis coaching to better manage my emotions. I felt calmer, more aligned... and this time, it worked. Today, I'm pregnant. I'm convinced that my psychological state has made a real difference."
Sophie M., 35
As caregivers, we have a key role to play in breaking the vicious circle between stress and infertility.
Incorporating a holistic approach, focusing on body and mind, not only improves the chances of conception, but also reduces the psychological suffering of patients and those around them.
- Psychological support
- Stress management techniques (hypnosis, meditation, CBT)
- Regular physical activity
- Appropriate nutrition
- Support for family and friends or discussion groups
Learn more about Lactium for stress management!
Sources :
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Aitken RJ. Impact of oxidative stress on male and female germ cells: implications for fertility. Reproduction. 2020 Apr;159(4):R189-R201. doi: 10.1530/REP-19-0452.
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Gleicher N, Seier K, Kushnir VA, Weghofer A, Wu YG, Wang Q, Albertini DF, Barad DH. Associations between peripheral androgens and cortisol in infertile women. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2016 Apr;158:82-89. doi: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.01.004.
Chimote BN, Chimote NM. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and Its Sulfate (DHEA-S) in Mammalian Reproduction: Known Roles and Novel Paradigms. Vitam Horm. 2018;108:223-250. doi: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.02.001.