What effect does stress have on my ability to conceive a baby?

Stress can affect your ability to become pregnant or conceive a baby.

High levels of stress can change your hormones. Hormones are chemicals that travel throughout the body and help control how your cells work.

Stress can affect your body’s ability to release an egg (ovulate). Since stress may delay releasing an egg, the days in your cycle that you’re able to become pregnant (fertility window) will change.

Stress can also affect your testosterone levels. This can affect your sperm and sexual function.

If you’re feeling stressed, you may also be less interested in sex.