It’s time to start thinking about the relationship between sleep and fertility

When you’re TTC, you know that you’re supposed to eat a nutritious diet, pop a daily prenatal vitamin and get busy in the bedroom around the time you’re ovulating. However, have you thought about the other activity you do in bed and how it might affect your fertility? We’re talking about sleep and fertility. Is there a relationship between the two?

The Austin fertility doctors at Texas Fertility Center have gone through the research, and the answer appears to be yes. Read on to learn why and how lack of sleep could interfere with your pregnancy attempts.

The research suggests an important link between sleep and fertility

Sleep is vital to refresh our bodies and keep everything running smoothly. As a result, it might surprise you that there isn’t a lot of research about the link between sleep and fertility. However, the research that is out there suggests that a lack of sleep could contribute to fertility issues.

The reason relates to hormones and sleep. It turns out that the same part of the brain that regulates the hormones responsible for our sleep-wake cycle also triggers the release of reproductive hormones. This is true for both men and women. As a result, lack of sleep could interfere with the hormones tied to ovulation in women and sperm production in men. This is a problem if your goal is to bring home a bundle of joy.

Tips to address a lack of sleep

Getting enough sleep is vital when you want to try for a baby. However, the CDC reports that more than one-third of Americans aren’t getting enough z’s.

If you’re in this group of sleep-deprived men and women, our Austin fertility doctors have tips to help you get more of the precious rest you need.

• Having a regular bedtime and morning alarm can do wonders for your sleep hygiene.
• Racing thoughts can make it hard to fall asleep, so use the hour or so before bed to do something relaxing to help you wind down for the day.
• Getting enough sunlight during the day can help you regulate your sleep-wake cycle, so aim to get at least one hour each day. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.
• Waking up with a cup of java and winding down with a drink are common. However, try to avoid having caffeine or alcohol within five hours of bedtime.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of knowing yourself and how much sleep you need. While the average sleep requirement for adults is eight hours per night, you may require a little more or a little less. Knowing what works for you and honoring it can help improve your sleep and fertility.

If you’d like to learn more about how to improve your chances of conceiving, our Austin fertility doctors can help. Contact us to make an appointment.