Is there a link between sleep and fertility?
From cramming for exams as a student, to working to meet deadlines at work, chances are you have experienced bouts of interrupted sleep in your life. Most people understand that not getting enough sleep isn’t the best for their mental and physical wellbeing. However, you might not know about the connection between sleep and fertility. Our Newport Beach fertility clinic experts are here to shed some light on this topic.
Why is rest important for your health?
You know that too little sleep can make you less focused, cranky and sluggish, but did you know it can do more than that? Research indicates that lack of sleep can increase the risks of conditions, such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, decreased sleep can lower your immune response and make you more susceptible to illness.
If you’re undergoing fertility treatment, sleep may increase your production of cortisol and alter the production of reproductive hormones. These changes could disrupt ovulation and make getting pregnant more difficult.
Tips for improving both sleep and fertility
To have the best chances of success, our Newport Beach fertility clinic experts will tell you that you need to get seven to nine hours of sleep. The following tips provide useful suggestions for getting a better night’s sleep.
- Try to go to bed at the same time, preferably between 9 and 11 p.m. You should also wake up at roughly the same time every day to keep your circadian rhythms regulated.
- Limit caffeine intake, especially in the late afternoon and evening.
- Turn off electronics and put down your phone at least 30 minutes before bed to help your brain relax.
- Develop a regular exercise routine. This helps your physical health and can improve sleep.
- Talk to your doctor if you suffer from insomnia or any other sleep disorders.
- Don’t take melatonin or any other natural supplements without consulting your fertility specialist first.
Place your dreams in our capable hands
At our Newport Beach fertility center, we want our patients to joyfully anticipate becoming parents. Our entire team is committed to making your goals a reality by offering compassionate care and advanced infertility treatments. Contact our office to make an appointment and learn more about topics like sleep and fertility.