Sleep might be a fairly important factor to consider when trying to conceive. Not getting enough of it can throw your body out of whack enough to make conception more difficult.
The physicians here at RHS encourage their patients to try to get plenty of rest. They understand that procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF) can cause a considerate amount of stress that might have an effect on a woman’s ability to conceive. When you are trying to conceive, the excitement about getting pregnant – or the worry that you won’t – can certainly keep you tossing and turning all night!
Getting a good night’s sleep helps to keep your circadian rhythm running smooth. Your circadian rhythm is your internal clock, the one that helps to control every system in your body. The rhythm also helps to determine when you ovulate. If your body lacks sleep, it wants to protect itself, so it boosts the immune system and performs other activities that take its attention away from conceiving.
While it’s not clear exactly how much sleep deprivation might compromise fertility, it is apparent that chronic stress and obesity can lower a woman’s chances of getting pregnant. These conditions can all be made worse by sleep loss.
What can you do to improve your sleep and your odds of conceiving?
· Put yourself on a regular sleep schedule – go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Also, establishing a nightly routine before bed will help you relax and clear your mind.
· Get moving – moderate exercise will reduce stress. Working out makes falling and staying asleep easier. If you have trouble sleeping, avoid evening workouts.
· Lose weight if your BMI (Body Mass Index) is >35 – being overweight can have a direct effect on your quality of sleep. It can lower your chances of pregnancy; not to mention other serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
In regards to sleep and conception, one thing is for certain: a good night’s sleep will not hurt your odds, it just might help.