Key takeaways
- Infertility has medical causes, in women and in men, and needs evaluation by a clinician.
- Support such as cognitive-behavioral and mind-body programs reduces distress.
- Reviews suggest psychosocial care might improve pregnancy rates, but the evidence is mixed. It is not a replacement for treatment.
Does stress cause infertility?
Infertility is far more often linked to ovulation, tubal, sperm or uterine factors than to stress. But the experience of infertility and its treatment is a significant source of distress, which can affect relationships and well-being. Being told to relax is unhelpful, and it can also add guilt.
What psychological programs achieve
An early trial of group programs for infertile women found higher pregnancy rates in participants.[1] (source 1) A later meta-analysis of 39 studies found that psychosocial interventions, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy, reduced psychological distress and may have improved clinical pregnancy rates. Study quality varied.[2] (source 2)
What may help
- Seek a medical evaluation if you have been trying for 12 months, or 6 months if over 35
- Ask your clinic about counselling or support groups
- Use a daily relaxation practice to ease anxiety and sleep
- Share the load with your partner, friends or a therapist
Common questions
Will relaxing help me get pregnant?
There is no guarantee. Relaxation and counselling help many people cope, and some studies suggest a benefit for pregnancy rates, but medical factors are decisive.
Is stress a reason to postpone treatment?
Not usually. Your clinician can advise on timing, and support can run alongside treatment.
Sources
- Domar AD, Clapp D, Slawsby EA, et al. Impact of group psychological interventions on pregnancy rates in infertile women. Fertil Steril. 2000;73(4):805–811. doi:10.1016/s0015-0282(99)00493-8
- Frederiksen Y, Farver-Vestergaard I, Skovgård NG, et al. Efficacy of psychosocial interventions for psychological and pregnancy outcomes in infertile women and men: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open. 2015;5(1):e006592. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006592