Fatigue is a common problem in our society. Due to stress, work and other important tasks, we have to deal every day, we are permanently exhausted, which in turn can negatively affect our fertility. But how exactly does tiredness weaken our reproductive ability?
Types of Fatigue
Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue is a condition that occurs with a collection of signs and symptoms indicate an under-functioning of the adrenal glands and neuroendocrine system. This results in high levels of cortisol that end in hormone imbalances, constant fatigue, and stress. This fatigue is not relieved by sleep or rest, but rather is continuous with a gradual onset.
Exhaustion
Exhaustion could be caused due to many things such as: stress, sleeplessness, over committing oneself, or excessive gym use. This type of fatigue could be related to sleep issues and hormone functions. Many of these hormone issues are found within our cortisol levels and thyroid dysfunction. Feeling constantly exhausted is not normal.
The Role Different Types of Fatigue Play on Fertility
While different types of fatigue have different factors to blame, they create a similar response within the female body when it comes to affecting fertility.
Adrenal Fatigue
When your adrenals are overtaxed from Adrenal Fatigue, your cortisol levels rise. Research shows that when cortisol levels are raised for a long period of time your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is thrown off balance. When this occurs, your hormones are no longer balanced. The hormones required for fertility such as estrogen, progesterone, and DHEA decline, when the body is making cortisol on overtime. This can cause issues with fertility.
Exhaustion
Research shows that if you are having trouble with exhaustion than it may be cortisol levels or thyroid dysfunction to blame. When the body is in high stress mode, the body produces more cortisol. This is much like adrenaline or the “fight or flight” feeling. In order for the body to produce higher levels of cortisol, it requires more progesterone than normal. When progesterone is being used this way, it is being redirected in the body and not being used where it is needed most. Progesterone is what helps a woman to prepare for and sustain a healthy pregnancy. A lack of this hormone could result in fertility problems. Thyroid dysfunction could also cause difficulty with fertility. The thyroid helps to promote a normal ovulation process, fetal development, and a growing pregnancy.
Research also shows that when a woman does not get enough sleep her luteinizing hormone, LH, can become affected. This hormone is responsible for beginning the ovulation process and helps to control a regular menstrual cycle.
Overcoming Fertility Impacting Fatigue
Adrenal Fatigue
Exhaustion
When working to overcome exhaustion, there are many factors to consider. It is important to give yourself the time to unwind and relax from what is keeping your body in a state of chronic fatigue. Exhaustion cannot be overcome within a few days, it will take your body time to get back into a healthy state. Along with giving yourself more time, making sure to get the right amount of sleep every night will greatly help. Sleep is more than just the number of hours, but also the quality of sleep that occurs. Take care to provide yourself with an environment that promotes a peaceful night sleep. Last but not least, eating right will help to raise energy levels and combat exhaustion. It is important to make sure that you are getting proper nutrition throughout the day.
