Is Stress Affecting Your Fertility?
In an era where women often choose to fully sort career and finances before considering having children. It’s no wonder some of us will be in our late 30s or 40s before we even begin to think about diapers and daycare. The scary fact of the matter is, some science says fertility begins to decline once women turn 30. Yikes if that isn't enough reason for stress.
A new study points to another factor challenging women’s chances of reproducing — stress. (Like we weren’t stressed about the odds already). Previous research has connected stress in both men and women with lowered chances of getting pregnant. This study, however, is the first of its kind to connect the stress biomarker alpha-amylase with infertility. Of the 401 who participated in the yearlong study, those with the highest levels of the biomarker had a 29% reduction in fecundity (the ability to reproduce). Though lots of studies have pointed to high levels of the hormone cortisol as a clear indicator of stress, this study didn’t find an association between the hormone and lowered chances of getting pregnant.
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But, what about how these women actually felt? Lead researcher, Courtney Lynch, says the study wasn’t just about the biomarker. The men and women wrote down their daily stress levels (separately) and completed the Cohen’s perceived stress questionnaire, which includes questions about coping, handling daily tasks, and personal control.
But in line with the researchers’ previous study (which focused on self-reported stress levels), Lynch says, “We found no association between salivary alpha-amylase and the Cohen’s perceived stress scale.” So, while we may think we’ve had a rough day or a peachy one, our bodies might think otherwise. Despite medical advances to help women get pregnant, researchers say there are still many unanswered questions about infertility and overcoming reproductive roadblocks — including stress.
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Shop Fertility Support →Frequently Asked Questions
What is alpha-amylase and how does it affect fertility?
Alpha-amylase is a stress biomarker found in saliva that recent research has linked to reduced fertility. A yearlong study of 401 participants found that those with the highest levels of alpha-amylase experienced a 29% reduction in fecundity (the ability to reproduce). Unlike cortisol, which was previously thought to be the primary stress hormone affecting pregnancy chances, alpha-amylase appears to be a more reliable indicator of stress-related reproductive challenges.
Does perceived stress actually affect my ability to get pregnant?
Interestingly, research shows that how stressed you feel may not directly correlate with whether stress is biologically impacting your fertility. While participants in studies reported varying stress levels on questionnaires, these self-reported feelings didn't always match their biological stress markers like alpha-amylase. This means you could feel fine but still have elevated stress biomarkers affecting your reproductive health, or vice versa—making objective medical testing important when investigating fertility issues.
At what age does female fertility decline, and should I be worried?
According to current research, female fertility begins to decline around age 30, with more significant decreases occurring after age 35. However, many women successfully conceive in their late 30s and 40s, and modern fertility treatments like IVF can help overcome age-related challenges. If you're concerned about your fertility timeline, consulting with a reproductive endocrinologist at an American fertility clinic can help you understand your individual reproductive health and options.
How can I reduce stress to improve my chances of getting pregnant?
While the article highlights that stress biomarkers affect fertility, specific stress-reduction techniques aren't detailed in the research discussed. However, general evidence-based approaches include regular exercise, meditation, therapy, adequate sleep, and social support—all of which are commonly recommended by fertility specialists. Consider speaking with your healthcare provider or a therapist specializing in fertility to develop a personalized stress management plan alongside any fertility treatments you may be pursuing.
Should I get tested for stress biomarkers if I'm trying to conceive?
Currently, stress biomarker testing (like alpha-amylase) is primar
Can men's stress also affect fertility and conception chances?
Yes, research shows that stress impacts both men and women's reproductive health. The yearlong study discussed in the article included both male and female participants and found that high stress biomarkers affected fecundity in both sexes. If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, addressing stress management for both of you may be beneficial, and consulting with a fertility specialist can help identify all contributing factors.
What fertility treatments are available if stress is affecting my ability to conceive?
While managing stress is important, various evidence-based fertility treatments are available in the US, including ovulation support, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and in vitro fertilization (IVF)—all of which may be covered partially or fully by insurance depending on your plan. Many fertility clinics also offer complementary approaches, such as nutritional support with inositol and other supplements designed to support hormone balance and egg quality. Consulting with a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist can help you determine the best treatment approach for your specific situation.
