Tips on stress and fertility

You might not be surprised to learn that studies showed the stress associated with fertility treatment can equal the stress associated with serious illness, even cancer!

1. More than 20 studies concluded that a woman's level of stress and depression prior to fertility treatment significantly impacted the success of treatment.
2. Stress can cause or contribute to infertility as well as the duration of infertility.
3. Pregnancy is much more likely to occur during months when couples are feeling "good" -- happy and relaxed, according to a study published in the medical journal Human Reproduction.

The good news is that patients who seek emotional support early in treatment are often better prepared for their experiences and find it significantly less stressful than patients who do not, says REACH psychological consultant Eugenia Gullick, PhD.

She suggests these ways to cope with the distress of infertility:

1. Minimize other types of stress, as much as possible
2. Engage more frequently in relaxing and restorative activities
3. Practice Yoga, particularly yoga breathing exercises
4. Focus on the parts of your life that are going well and give you pleasure
5. Consider acupuncture for stress reduction_Brief psychotherapy

Consultations with Dr. Gullick are available for REACH patients at our clinics. She also sees patients in private practice. For more information, call 704-343-4444.