Help with infertility at Chestnut Hypnotherapy

Most couples conceive naturally within a year or maybe two. However it doesn't work out like that for everyone

Doctors can help with the medical issues but for a quarter of couples who experience infertility there is no apparent medical reason.

There is growing evidence that stress has a big  impact on fertility. As a Clinical Hypnotherapist  I can help you with that.

I can help you:

• Increase feelings of calm and relaxation.

• Develop ways to reduce your stress

• Help you restore a sense of balance and wellbeing.

• Reduce Depression

• Help you make any lifestyle changes that are advised

Stress impacts our overall health and over a long period of time it will affect the hormones involved in ovulation, implantation of the embryo and the quality of the sperm.

When we are under stress the body naturally protects itself  from any kind of threat. Consequently taking care of a foetus puts it under strain, 

The hypothalamus in the brain regulates both the stress response and the sex hormones. This is why excess stress affects ovulation and menstrual cycles.

Adrenaline is released  when we are under stress to help us escape the perceived danger. 

However it also inhibits the hormone progesterone which is required to build and maintain the uterus  thus affecting fertility.

During times of stress the pituitary gland increases the amount of prolactin which normally stimulates milk production for a new baby. 

Prolactin also reduces fertility during breastfeeding. Hence increased prolactin levels may reduce the chances of conceiving a baby.

During times of prolonged stress the sympathetic nervous system is overstimulated. 

This means that the body sends less blood to the reproductive organs therefore  affecting the functioning of the ovaries.

When we are stressed we may not be sleeping so well.  Sleep is vital for optimal health. 

Continued sleep disturbance leads to a vicious cycle and we can easily become stuck in the fight flight or freeze state. 

The more tired we are, the more stressed we become,

 The following lifestyle changes will have a positive impact on fertility:

• Stop smoking – smokers are 50% more likely to miscarry and men who smoke have a lower sperm count and a 20% decrease in sperm motility. 

• Avoid drinking alcohol -alcohol may affect fertility and sperm quality. Even in small amounts it can decrease the chances of conception.  

• Avoid the use of recreational drugs – cocaine constricts blood vessels affecting the placenta and can cause menstrual  irregularities.  

•  Reduce caffeine intake -Caffeine increases the chances of miscarriage. 

• Avoid saunas and anything that raises the temperature of the testicles as this can decrease sperm production and motility.

•  Avoid vigourous exercise as raising the heartbeat over 110 bpm may decrease the chances of conception. 

Please do get in touch with me. You can book a free no obligation consultation and I will be able to answer all your questions.