For the process of conception, a number of factors such as general he alth, diet, physical activity and stress are important. Results of a recent study published in Human Reproduction show that despite the he althy lifestyle that both partners lead, stress can reduce the chance of conception.
373 couples as the focus of the study was on ladies who were between the ages of 18 and 40. Participants shared that they had been trying to conceive for 12 months. Scientists note that they have had no problems with fertility.
The specialists studied the stress hormone cortisol and the enzyme alpha-amylase (an enzyme that is synthesized in the pancreas, and salivary amylase is synthesized and secreted by the parotid glands).
shows that those women with the highest levels of alpha-amylase reduced their chance of getting pregnant by 29% and doubled their risk of infertility. Scientists have not found a direct link between cortisol levels and difficulty conceiving.
It is yet to be established why exactly alpha-amylase is associated with lower fertility. Research in this direction continues. Scientists advise every couple trying for a baby, in addition to a he althy lifestyle, to turn to some kind of relaxation therapies or activities.
