Fertility Burnout - What is it?

In my experience I see a lot of people with fertility burnout. This is an extremely common condition that can arise when individuals experiencing fertility struggles become emotionally and physically drained from the process. In fact, research suggests that up to 90% of people trying to conceive may experience some form of burnout [1].

For those who seek assisted reproductive technology (ART), the average number of IVF treatments couples have is 2.7, but I often see patients who have had upwards of five rounds, along with a hideous amount of tests and scans. Women who are trying to conceive later in life may face additional challenges due to age-related declines in fertility.

However, it's important to note that many women are able to conceive and have healthy pregnancies later in life, and seeking support can help improve the chances of success.

How Fertility burnout is a vicious cycle and can further disrupt fertility issues

Fertility burnout can lead to imbalances in the endocrine and immune systems, which can negatively impact reproductive health. The hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries are key players in the body's reproductive system, and disruptions in these areas can cause irregular periods, changes in cervical mucus, and difficulty conceiving. The hypothalamus is very sensitive to stress and its responsible for producing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones play a crucial role in the ovarian cycle, including follicle development and ovulation. Fertility burnout can disrupt the delicate balance of these hormones, leading to ovulatory dysfunction and menstrual irregularities.

Additionally, the immune system can also be impacted by fertility burnout. Stress can cause the immune system to release cytokines, which can affect the ovarian cycle and increase the risk of implantation failure and miscarriage [3]. Research has also suggested that elevated levels of natural killer (NK) cells, a type of immune cell, may be associated with infertility and recurrent miscarriage [4] and become raised when we are more stressed.

How Fertility Burnout Can Be Considered from a Chinese Medicine Point of View

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), fertility is seen as a reflection of the body's overall balance and harmony. TCM practitioners view the body's energy, or qi, as flowing through a series of channels, or meridians, and believe that imbalances or blockages in these channels can disrupt the flow of qi and lead to health issues, including fertility problems.

From a TCM perspective, fertility burnout can be considered a reflection of imbalances in the liver and spleen energies, which can lead to disruptions in the menstrual cycle and hormonal imbalances. The liver is responsible for regulating the flow of qi and blood, while the spleen is responsible for transforming and transporting nutrients. When the liver and spleen energies are imbalanced, qi and blood flow can become stagnant, leading to menstrual irregularities, ovarian dysfunction, and other fertility issues.

TCM treatments such as acupuncture and herbal remedies can be used to address imbalances in the liver and spleen energies and promote overall reproductive health. Acupuncture has been shown to improve the quality of cervical mucus, regulate the menstrual cycle, and improve the success rates of ART [5]. Herbal remedies such as Dang Gui and Ba Ji Tian can help regulate hormones and support healthy ovulation [6].

Self Care for Fertility Burnout

In addition to TCM treatments, self-care practices can also help support the body during fertility burnout. Here are five interesting suggestions:

• Forest Bathing: Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice of spending time in nature to improve health and well-being. Research has shown that spending time in forests can enhance natural killer (NK) activity and reduce stress levels, making it a great self-care practice for those experiencing fertility burnout [7].

• Horizon Line Therapy: Horizon Line Therapy is a type of therapy that involves looking at the horizon to balance the autonomic nervous system and reduce stress levels. A pilot study has shown that Horizon Line Therapy can improve autonomic nervous function and reduce stress [8].

• Cedarwood Essential Oil: Cedarwood essential oil has sedative properties and can help reduce stress and anxiety. It can be used in aromatherapy or diluted and applied topically as a self-care practice [9].

• Qigong Exercise: Bao Mai breathing is a type of qigong exercise that involves deep breathing and gentle movements. It can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, making it a great self-care practice for those experiencing fertility burnout [10]. Have a look at my previous post on Bao Mai breathing, there is a video there to help.

• Circadian Rhythm Support: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help support the body's circadian rhythm, which plays a key role in regulating hormone production and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

In conclusion, fertility burnout can have a significant impact on reproductive health and well-being. Seeking support, practicing self-care, and considering traditional Chinese medicine techniques can help address imbalances and promote overall health and fertility. If you would like to find out more about my approach to supporting fertility why don’t you get in contact. I am always happy to offer a free 15 minute consultation to discuss how I might be able to help you.

ABOUT KATE FREEMANTLE

I am an acupuncturist and herbalist with over 17 years of clinical experience supporting fertility. I work online and in my Dorset clinic.

I am a Fertility Support trained expert. To find out more about my expertise or another expert near you click here.

If you would like to find out more please get in contact here or call me on 07880545943.

References:

1. Domar, A. D., et al. (2018). Impact of psychological factors on dropout rates in insured infertility patients. Fertility and Sterility, 110(1), 113-118.

2. Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. (2019). Fertility treatment in 2017: trends and figures.

3. Murphy, L. E., et al. (2010). Stress and reproductive dysfunction: An evolutionary perspective. Human Reproduction Update, 16(2), 223-235.

4. Kwak-Kim, J. Y., et al. (2015). Immunological modes of pregnancy loss. American Journal of Reproductive Immunology, 74(3), 201-214.

5. Smith, C. A., et al. (2018). Acupuncture to improve live birth rates for women undergoing in vitro fertilization: A protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials, 19(1), 364.

6. Zhang, J., et al. (2013). Chinese herbal medicine for subfertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (6), CD007535.

7. Li, Q., et al. (2008). Forest bathing enhances human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, 21(1), 117-127.