The Impact of Stress on Preconception and How to Manage It

By the Perdays Team

Over recent years, research has been conducted in order to better understand the link between lifestyle factors and overall health on preconception. Research appears to consistently demonstrate that food choices, quality of sleep and factors such as overall stress may have an impact on preconception in both men and women. In this article, Perdays provides a better understanding of stress, how it affects us and strategies that can be adopted to reduce its effects.

Experiencing stress occasionally is a normal part of daily life, it is our body’s coping mechanism, allowing us to respond to specific situations. However, prolonged stress, also called chronic stress, may be directly related to a wide range of health concerns such as sleep disorders, digestive issues and mood disturbances. 

As experienced professionals in the field of fertility support products, we closely follow the latest research on stress and the ways in which it affects men and women. 

Studies show that women with higher levels of alpha-amylase may be less likely to become pregnant. Alpha-amylase is often used by researchers as a way to determine physical or psychological stress because the substance is secreted as a response to it. 

Several clinical studies have also demonstrated a possible link between psychological stress and an impact on spermatogenesis. Research indicates that the recently discovered hormone gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) may inhibit the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. When this axis is compromised, it can lead to a drop in testosterone levels which cause changes in the blood-testis barrier.

Chronic stress affects the body in many ways. It can affect blood sugar, impact the immune system, digestive system and preconception. Luckily, there are some strategies that can help manage it, such as: 

• Getting the right amount of good quality sleep, improving mental and physical well-being 
• Forming and maintaining strong social connections for a positive impact on overall well-being
• Engaging in regular and moderate physical exercise

Interested in more preconception support resources for stress management? Browse the Perdays website for more information. 

Here at Perdays, we believe that high-quality, research backed fertility vitamins can be greatly beneficial when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Contact us today for more information on the link between stress and preconception, or place your order with us.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.