Stress and reproductive failure

Abstract

A number of authors have suggested that psychological stress factors may be responsible for some cases of unexplained infertility. This article explores the available evidence examining the link between psychological stress, prolactin levels and failure to conceive in such cases. Evidence of heightened anxiety in patients with unexplained infertility, the relationship between stress and prolactin levels and the effect of reducing stress and prolactin levels in infertile couples is evaluated. Although there is some evidence for a direct association between stress-induced hyperprolactinaemia and infertility there is a clear need for further research. Various methodological difficulties in assessing a possible psychological-biological failure to conceive link are discussed and the need for a closer relationship between psychological and endocrinological research suggested.