Fertility Health Archives - Aria Fertility

FAQ: Can stress affect your fertility?

If you are trying to conceive, you will no doubt have been told to ‘just relax’ at some point. It is one of those phrases that tends to land badly, and understandably so. Being told to relax when you are already anxious about something rarely helps.

But behind the well-meaning if unhelpful advice lies a genuine scientific question: can psychological stress affect your ability to get pregnant?

The honest answer is that the relationship between stress and fertility is real, but nuanced. Stress alone is unlikely to be the sole reason you are not conceiving, and it is important not to heap additional blame on yourself if you are finding this time emotionally difficult.

What the evidence does tell us is that chronic, sustained stress can create physiological conditions that are less favourable for conception, and that taking steps to manage your wellbeing is a worthwhile part of your fertility journey.

What happens in your body when you are stressed?

When your body perceives a threat, it activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, releasing stress hormones including cortisol and adrenaline. In the short term, this is a healthy and entirely normal response. The difficulty arises when stress becomes chronic, keeping cortisol levels persistently elevated.

High cortisol can interfere with the hormonal signals that govern the menstrual cycle. The hypothalamus, which sits at the top of the reproductive hormone chain, is sensitive to stress.

When it detects sustained physiological strain, it can suppress the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which, in turn, reduces the output of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) needed for ovulation. In some cases, this disruption can contribute to irregular cycles or even temporary anovulation.

What does the research say?

A landmark study published in Human Reproduction followed 401 couples over a 12-month period and found that women with higher levels of alpha-amylase, a biomarker of stress, had a significantly reduced probability of conception compared to those with lower levels.

Specifically, those with the highest alpha-amylase levels were 29% less likely to conceive in any given cycle. Importantly, cortisol alone did not show the same association, suggesting that the broader stress response, rather than a single hormone, matters.

Research published in Fertility and Sterility has also explored the impact of stress on IVF outcomes. A 2011 study by Matthiesen et al. found that women who reported higher levels of psychological distress during IVF treatment had lower rates of clinical pregnancy, though the authors were careful to note that causality is difficult to establish in this context.

The impact on male fertility

It is worth noting that stress does not only affect female fertility. Research has shown that psychological stress in men can reduce testosterone levels and negatively affect sperm quality, including motility and morphology.

A further study published in Fertility and Sterility demonstrated a significant correlation between elevated cortisol and reduced sperm parameters in men experiencing work-related stress. Fertility is a shared journey, and the emotional weight of trying to conceive can affect both partners physiologically.

What can you do to support yourself?

Managing stress during fertility treatment does not mean eliminating all worry from your life, which would be neither realistic nor helpful. It means building in evidence-based practices that support your nervous system and give your body the best possible environment for conception.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) have both been studied in the context of fertility and shown to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms in patients undergoing IVF. In a randomised controlled trial, it was found that women who participated in a structured mind-body programme had significantly higher pregnancy rates than those who did not. Regular gentle exercise, adequate sleep, and social support have all been demonstrated to have measurable benefits on HPA axis regulation.

At Aria, we understand that trying to conceive is one of the most emotionally demanding experiences a person can go through. Our team is here not only to support your clinical treatment but also to ensure you feel heard and cared for throughout the process. If you have concerns about how stress may be affecting your fertility, or you would simply like to speak to someone about where to begin, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team.

13 April 2026/by CLINIC TEAM

Does sleep affect your fertility?

FAQs, Fertility Health, News

When you are trying to conceive, it is natural to focus on the obvious things: your diet, your cycle, your supplements. Sleep, by contrast, tends to get overlooked. It is easy to dismiss a few disturbed nights as an inevitable side effect of anxiety and hope rather than something that meaningfully affects your chances of becoming pregnant.

But a growing body of research suggests that the relationship between sleep and fertility runs far deeper than most people realise, and that prioritising rest may be one of the most valuable things you can do for your reproductive health.

Today is World Sleep Day, an annual global awareness event that highlights the critical importance of sleep to our health. Here, we look at the relationship between sleep and IVF outcomes and whether better sleep could improve your fertility.

Why sleep matters for hormones and fertility

Sleep is not passive. While you rest, your body is carrying out an enormous amount of hormonal work, and many of the hormones that regulate your reproductive system are directly tied to your sleep-wake cycle.

Oestrogen, progesterone, luteinising hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) all follow circadian rhythms, meaning they rise and fall in patterns anchored to light, darkness, and sleep. When those patterns are disrupted, our hormones can follow suit.

Central to this process is melatonin, the hormone produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness. Most of us think of melatonin simply as a sleep signal, but it plays a much broader role in female reproductive health.

Research published in Fertility and Sterility found that melatonin acts as a powerful antioxidant within the follicular fluid surrounding developing eggs, protecting oocytes from oxidative stress at the vulnerable moment of ovulation. Disrupting the regular production of melatonin through poor sleep, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive evening blue light exposure may therefore have a direct impact on egg quality.

Recent research in Frontiers in Endocrinology further highlights that disturbances to the circadian system, such as those experienced by shift workers, are associated with disrupted menstrual cycles, underscoring how tightly reproductive hormones are tied to our internal body clock.

What the research tells us about sleep and IVF outcomes

For those preparing for or undergoing IVF or ICSI treatment, the evidence around sleep is particularly compelling. A 2025 prospective cohort study published in the journal Sleep found that women reporting poor sleep quality had significantly fewer retrieved and mature oocytes compared with women who slept well. Difficulty falling asleep more than three times per week was also associated with fewer good-quality embryos. The researchers concluded that optimising sleep patterns holds real promise for improving IVF outcomes.

A separate study of women undergoing IVF or ICSI, published in Human Reproduction, found that sleeping fewer than seven hours per night was associated with reductions in both the number of eggs retrieved and their maturity.

Interestingly, the timing of sleep also appeared to matter, with mid-sleep times that were either too early or too late linked to lower fertilisation rates. The sweet spot, both studies suggest, is somewhere between seven and eight hours of good-quality, well-timed sleep each night.

Preconception planning: getting your body ready

Whether you are in the early stages of trying to conceive naturally or preparing for fertility treatment, the months before you begin are a remarkable window of opportunity. The eggs that will be retrieved or ovulated in the coming weeks and months are being matured right now, and the environment your body creates during that time matters. Sleep is one part of that picture, alongside nutrition, movement, and emotional wellbeing, but it is one that is often underestimated.

Consistent, restorative sleep supports healthy cortisol patterns, reduces systemic inflammation, and keeps the hormonal axis that governs your cycle in better balance.

Conversely, chronic sleep deprivation elevates cortisol, which can suppress GnRH and interfere with the downstream hormones that drive ovulation. You do not need to be suffering from a recognised sleep disorder for disrupted sleep to have an effect; the cumulative impact of regularly cut-short nights or poor sleep quality can quietly undermine your hormonal health over time.

Simple steps can make a real difference:

Keeping a consistent sleep and wake time
Reducing screen exposure in the hour before bed
Making your bedroom cool and dark
Limiting caffeine after midday
Look to your diet as certain foods can either promote or inhibit sleep
Keep fit and active

Approaching IVF in optimal health

For couples and individuals preparing for IVF, it is worth thinking about sleep as part of the broader preconception health picture rather than something separate from it.

Being in optimal health before you begin treatment does not mean being perfect. It means giving your body the best possible conditions in which to respond. For most people, that includes eating well, moving regularly, managing stress, being at a healthy weight, and yes, sleeping enough.

If you would like to explore how best to prepare for fertility treatment, arrange an appointment with one of our experts to discuss preconception planning and organise an assessment for a clearer picture of your fertility health.

13 March 2026/by CLINIC TEAM

UPFs and fertility

Fertility Health, Fertility Nutrition, News

There has been an explosion in the consumption of ultra-processed food or UPFs in recent years and it’s estimated that over 50% of the food bought in the UK now consists of UPF. Compare this with 14.2% and 13.4% for our French and Italian neighbours respectively.

In a large-scale review involving almost 10 million people around the world, UPF has been linked to 32 harmful effects to our health, including high risk of heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and early mortality. While this particular review did not examine the impact of high consumption of ultra-processed foods on fertility, there is an increasing body of research into this field.

What are ultra-processed foods?

“Our consumption is so high because so much of our diet come under the banner of being a processed food in the first place,” explains dietitian Alex Ballard. “Often, we think that this just means crisps, sweets or ready meals and, while it is true that many ultra-processed foods are high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, not all are ‘unhealthy’.

“So, things like fortified breakfast cereal, such as Weetabix or Shredded Wheat, wholegrain bread, low fat yogurts, hummus can be classified as processed foods yet still be part of a healthy diet.”

Indeed, there is no single, universally agreed definition for ultra-processed foods. The term itself originates from the NOVA classification system, which was created by scientists at the University of São Paulo in Brazil.

NOVA divides foods into four main categories according to how much industrial processing they undergo.

Unprocessed or minimally processed foods: These are natural foods like fruit, vegetables, milk, fish, pulses, eggs, nuts, and seeds that have had minimal or no alteration and no added ingredients.
Processed culinary ingredients: These include substances used in cooking rather than eaten alone, such as oil, sugar, and salt.
Processed foods: Made by blending ingredients from the first two groups, these are foods that could feasibly be prepared at home and examples include jams, pickles, canned fruits or vegetables, cheeses, and freshly baked breads.
Ultra-processed foods: These contain multiple industrial ingredients and additives rarely used domestically. They often feature preservatives, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and artificial colours or flavours, to give them a long shelf life.

What impact does ultra-processed food have on fertility?

Emerging evidence indicates that consuming large amounts of ultra-processed foods may adversely affect fertility in both women and men although the lack of a universal definition of what a UPF is contributes to the confusion of what we should and shouldn’t be eating.

“Although we have studies that show high consumption of these foods can produce poorer health outcomes and affect things like fertility, one research study will be testing certain foods, and another research study will test completely different foods.

“When it comes to fertility, researchers have examined the impact on both men and women, and several mechanisms are believed to play a role.”

Increased inflammation and oxidative stress

Ultra-processed foods are typically high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients, all of which can trigger inflammation and oxidative damage in the body. Such effects may interfere with reproductive function by disturbing hormone regulation. In men, oxidative stress can attack sperm membranes and fragment DNA, which is linked to lower sperm motility and higher miscarriage risk.

Hormonal disturbances

Diets rich in highly processed products can disrupt hormone balance by impacting the endocrine system. For instance, spikes in insulin levels from processed sugars may impair reproductive hormones, potentially disrupting ovulation in women and reducing sperm production in men.

Depriving the body of essential nutrients

These foods often provide minimal vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The resulting nutrient deficiencies can affect fertility by lowering the quality of eggs and sperm.

Weight gain and metabolic problem

Frequent consumption of ultra-processed items is linked to obesity and other metabolic issues. Conditions like obesity and metabolic dysfunction are known contributors to infertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women or diminished sperm quality in men.

In a 2025 study, healthy young men were placed on two tightly controlled diets, one high in UPFs and one composed of unprocessed foods, while ensuring that calorie intake was the same. It found that men gained fat mass on the UPF diet despite eating the same calories. As LDL cholesterol levels rose, there was a notable decrease in follicle‑stimulating hormone (FSH), a key driver of sperm production.

A fertility dietitian’s advice on UPFs

An NHS dietitian for ten years, Alex’s keen interest in female health and understanding of how diet can improve conditions such as PCOS and endometriosis led her to specialise in fertility nutrition.

“I believe we should approach UPFs in a nuanced way rather than demonising everything that falls under the banner of being processed. We should always ask ourselves, does this seem healthy? Is it nutrient dense? Does it have lots of vitamins and minerals? Is it high in fibre?

“If you’re answering yes, then then they’re going to be good things to include. Even the foods that do not have a lot of nutritional value can still have a place. Typicallly, they taste good and absolutely we can have food just for enjoyment’s sake. However, if we are having them in large quantities on a regular basis over a long period of time, then they are likely to have a detrimental impact on our health.

“I think it’s also important to highlight that sometimes we hear the word additives, and we think that’s a negative, whereas it can mean nutrient fortification, including added calcium vitamin D, or iodine, and that’s a positive. Or it could be quite a natural ingredient that is making the food safer to consume, increasing the shelf life, or making it more affordable so it’s accessible for more people.”

Alex’s tips on navigating UPFs:

Try to be organised with food planning and prep so you don’t reach for convenience foods which are likely to be ultra processed.
Take a packed lunch into work or take snacks out with you when you’re on the go.
Try to cook meals from scratch if you can as you’re likely to use ingredients in their naturally occurring form.
You don’t have to abstain completely but look at your consumption and try to reduce it down and switch over to natural foods as much as possible.
Look at the ingredients list on foods you’re considering consuming. As a very general rule, if there is only a small handful of ingredients, most of which you recognise or have a place in the domestic kitchen, then the food is likely to have gone through a minimal amount of processing. Whereas a long list of ingredients that you don’t recognise is a red flag.

For more advice on fertility nutrition, please visit our support hub or arrange a consultation with Alex Ballard.

17 November 2025/by CLINIC TEAM

The January reset: how your resolutions can prepare you for IVF

Fertility Health, Fertility Nutrition, News

How are your New Year’s resolutions going? January is a time for reflection, resolve and renewal, and for those considering fertility treatment, the commitments you make now can do more than improve your daily life – they can also boost your chances of IVF success. Here’s how focusing on exercise, stress management, nutrition, and eliminating harmful habits like smoking and drinking can help you get ready for your journey towards parenthood this year.

1. Embrace regular exercise

Research into the relationship between IVF and exercise has shown mixed results, with a 2006 study indicating a negative impact on assisted reproductive outcomes, but more recent studies have found regular exercise increased implantation rates, improved the chance of getting pregnant and reduced miscarriage risk.

Moderate, regular activity is recommended for your physical and mental wellbeing, and it could also have a positive impact on your fertility. Moderate exercise can help regulate your hormones, improve circulation to the reproductive organs, and maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for IVF success.

Excess weight can negatively impact egg quality and make implantation more challenging while being underweight can disrupt your menstrual cycle. A 2023 review concluded that overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome should be encouraged to engage in aerobic exercise or resistance training to optimise their chances of conceiving.

2. Manage stress for a healthier mind and body

The IVF process can be emotionally and physically taxing, and stress can exacerbate these challenges. High-stress levels may impact hormonal balance and reduce your chances of successful implantation. Making stress management a resolution can help you stay calm and focused during your fertility journey.

Consider incorporating relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or acupuncture. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek support from a therapist or a fertility counsellor.

3. Prioritise nutrition

A balanced diet rich in fertility-boosting nutrients can make a big difference in preparing your body for IVF. Start by including whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Key nutrients like folic acid, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants are essential for egg and sperm health.

Limit your intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats, as they can cause inflammation and disrupt hormone balance. Consider consulting a fertility nutritionist to tailor your diet to your needs. By making mindful eating a resolution, you’ll nourish your body and optimise your chances of success.

4. Make essential lifestyle changes

Smoking and drinking can significantly reduce fertility for both men and women. Smoking damages eggs, sperm, and the uterine lining, while excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt hormone levels and impair reproductive function.

If you smoke, make quitting one of your top resolutions. Seek support from smoking cessation programs, therapy, or nicotine replacement options. When it comes to alcohol, aim to limit or eliminate it altogether. Consider replacing alcoholic drinks with mocktails or sparkling water during social occasions.

5: Learn about your fertility

Understanding your fertility is an empowering step. Whether you’ve faced challenges conceiving or simply want to explore your options, our assessment will provide insight into your fertility health through a range of tests that evaluate your lifestyle and other health issues. A fertility check is about getting information to support your decisions.

Call +44 (0) 203 263 6025 or email us at admin@ariafertility.co.uk to arrange your fertility assessment.

21 January 2025/by CLINIC TEAM

The benefits of reproductive reflexology

Fertility Health, News

Embarking on IVF and fertility treatment can be incredibly stressful, and this time of year can make it particularly challenging. In our latest post, we chat with reflexologist Charlotte Bentley about the benefits of reproductive reflexology.

“Reflexology not only stimulates the reproductive and endocrine systems but also helps put the body into a relaxed state, which is needed at this sensitive time,” she explains.

The holidays emphasise family and celebration, which can be lonely and isolating. At the same time, the demands of the party season can make it hard to focus on a healthy lifestyle. So, this could be the perfect time to find an approach that decreases stress and increases relaxation.

Reflexology, an ancient healing practice rooted in Egyptian and Chinese traditions, involves applying pressure to specific points on the hands and feet. This technique is often used to alleviate various health concerns.

“I have been specialising in women’s health, including menstrual cycles, fertility, pregnancy, postnatal, peri-menopause, and menopause since qualifying. I also see people suffering with any kind of ailments which may include insomnia, anxiety, pain management, migraines, sinus issues, and lots more.”

Practitioners believe that the soles of the feet serve as a miniature map of the body, with specific areas corresponding to internal organs and systems, including the fallopian tubes and ovaries. By massaging these points, reflexologists aim to clear energy blockages, helping the body restore its natural balance and promote self-healing.

“Reflexology is the technique of applying gentle pressure to reflex areas on the feet or hands to bring about a state of deep relaxation and stimulate the body’s healing processes. Reflexology can help boost the immune system and create a stronger body and calmer mind.

“Reflexology is a safe, natural therapy that helps to give your body what it needs.”

Why did you decide to specialise in reproductive reflexology?

“During my year-long reflexology course, I had to do approximately 100 case studies. One woman had been trying to get pregnant for three years and was planning to start IVF. As a case study, I saw her once a week for four weeks, and that month she conceived.

“That had a huge impact on me, and I decided to specialise, doing additional courses in fertility, pregnancy and postnatal reflexology as well as everything relating to women’s health, such as the menopause.”

What are the benefits for those trying to conceive?

Irregular or missing periods can be regulated through reflexology by stimulating hormonal points such as the pituitary gland.

“I can make a big difference for patients with PCOS and endometriosis. Many girls are on the pill for so long, they don’t know where they are in their cycles.

Couples struggling to conceive will also experience significant levels of stress, which increases the release of adrenaline, cortisol, and nor-epinephrine in your body. Reflexology can help rebalance these hormones while stimulating the release of oxytocin.

“One of the most significant benefits of reflexology is that it puts your body into a relaxed state. This is particularly important for patients undergoing IVF.”

When should clients see you if they are trying to conceive naturally?

“This varies. Some women come to me a year before they plan to start trying, especially if they’ve got PCOS or endometriosis, to regulate their periods. Typically, they’ll see me once a month.

“When they want to start trying for a baby naturally, I like to see them twice before they ovulate. So, once they get their period, they let me know. Then, we will do two reflexology sessions. Obviously, everyone’s cycle is different.

“Then I don’t like to see them until they get their periods or not. If they get a period, we will try again the following month.

When do you prefer to see IVF patients?

“Ideally, as soon as possible, just to have a starting point. You can have reflexology as much as you want in the run-up although, depending on where they are in their fertility treatment, we do not stimulate the ovaries.

“I would see a patient until their egg collection, apart from the 24 hours after the trigger injection. After that, I can see them up until their transfer. Personally, I don’t like to see them post-transfer as nature should take its course.

Do you see patients after the embryo transfer?

“If it is a failed transfer, we can obviously start again. If the transfer is successful, I don’t usually see them during the first trimester unless there are special circumstances.

“One client was seven weeks pregnant but was celiac and didn’t want to take her medication during pregnancy, so reflexology helped her metabolism work properly.

“From the second trimester onwards, it’s all systems go, and they can have as much as they want. After childbirth, women often don’t have the time to prioritise themselves, but I recommend at least one treatment to rebalance hormones and to stimulate drainage of toxins.”

Click here to get in touch with Charlotte Bentley. Go to our Support Hub for access to some of the organisations offering fertility support, advice and information.

28 November 2024/by CLINIC TEAM

Stress and fertility explained

Fertility Health, News

The relationship between stress and fertility has been a hot topic for discussion for years. It is well documented that women experiencing infertility report elevated layers of stress, anxiety and depression. However, whether stress causes infertility is inconclusive.

Women get pregnant every day in very stressful conditions, but we know that elevated levels of cortisol, the stress hormone released by the body, can have a negative impact on the body as a whole, especially when experienced for extended periods. This can lead to inflammation which in turn affects menstruation, ovulation and embryo implantation.

One study found women who had high levels of an enzyme that indicated stress known as alpha-amylase in their saliva, took 29% longer to conceive compared to those who had less.

Similarly, studies have suggested there could be a link between stress and sperm quality, affecting sperm concentration and motility as well as abnormally- shaped sperm.

Steps to managing stress when undergoing IVF

Stress is a normal part of everyday life, but the emotional rollercoaster of IVF treatment on top of usual stressors can be overwhelming.

Moderate, short-lived stress actually has several benefits: it can enhance alertness, boost performance and improve memory function. When your stress response includes oxytocin, it can literally strengthen your heart, according to a recent study.

Unfortunately, long-term and unmanaged stress can have a hugely negative impact on your mental, emotional and physical health and dealing with infertility and undergoing fertility treatment is often a source of chronic stress.

Tips for thriving during your fertility treatment include:

Get informed: one of the best and most practical ways to deal with the stress of IVF is to know and understand what is taking place and each step of your fertility journey.
Be open to emotional support: we ensure all patients are aware of the physical demands of IVF before they embark on treatment, whether that’s the blood tests or injections required or the procedures they’ll have to undergo, but we also offer individuals and couples access to counselling options that can help them cope with the emotional impact of IVF.
Prioritise yourself: IVF can be both physically and emotionally draining so it’s important you do not take on new commitments that could overwhelm you. Do not be afraid to say no to requests, whether that’s from work or friends and family.
Take control of what you can control: there are so many aspects of IVF that are beyond your control, whether that’s the number of eggs harvested or embryos that would result. It is essential to focus your energy on what you can control, which could be working on your coping mechanisms so you can face each challenge as it arises.
Reframe negative thoughts: negative thinking can be a significant source of stress but learning how to control these thoughts can increase your emotional resilience and reduce anxiety.

At Aria Fertility, we offer patients the opportunity to access counselling support from the very beginning of their journey and in our Support Hub, we provide a guide to some of the organisations and practitioners offering fertility support, advice and information.

15 April 2024/by CLINIC TEAM

Can I still get pregnant if I have endometriosis?

FAQs, Fertility Health, Gynaecological Health, Infertility, News

The good news is that if you’re suffering from endometriosis, it is still possible to conceive without intervention. It is estimated that 60 to 70% of women with mild to moderate endometriosis can get pregnant spontaneously. However, there is a link between endometriosis and infertility although it is not clear exactly why women with this condition may have a harder time becoming pregnant.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a very common, chronic gynaecological condition. The endometrium is the lining of the inner uterine wall and sometimes it can grow outside of the uterus. The most common places affected are the ovaries and fallopian tubes, but it can also affect the pelvis, bladder and intestines.

Even outside of the uterus, these abnormal tissue growths respond to the hormonal changes that occur during your menstrual cycle. This means that in women of a reproductive age, the growths thicken and then break down. As the tissue cannot leave the body in the normal way, pain and scarring occurs.

Reasons why you may have difficulty conceiving

Although the exact cause has not been identified, there are several reasons why approximately 40% of women with infertility have endometriosis:

Scarring can make it harder for the ovary to release an egg or block the egg from reaching the fallopian tube to be fertilised
Ovarian endometriosis can affect ovulation and the number of mature eggs that are released
Inflammation creates an inhospitable environment that affects both the egg and sperm, making fertilisation and subsequent implantation more challenging

Endometriosis and infertility: your next steps

Endometriosis can affect women of any age and can present from very early on. If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, seeing a fertility specialist is recommended even if you’re not considering getting pregnant at that point.

A fertility specialist can assess the quantity and quality of your viable eggs, known as your ovarian reserve, as well as check the condition of your fallopian tubes or tubal patency. They will also assess your uterine cavity. This combined with the severity of your symptoms and your age, will be critical in determining the best treatment option.

These include laparoscopic endometriosis surgery, but this can reduce your ovarian reserve. When ready to start trying to conceive, IVF is often recommended although the success rates of IVF for those with endometriosis is about half that for those with other fertility issues.

Egg freezing is also an important treatment option to consider if you want to start a family in the future as endometriosis often gets progressively worse coupled with a natural decrease in fertility as you age.

If you’re worried about endometriosis and infertility, call +44 (0) 203 263 6025 to arrange a consultation with one of fertility experts. Consultant gynaecologist, Dr Amanda Tozer leads the Aria Women’s health clinic and provides bespoke gynae services. She has spent more than 20 years assisting couples experiencing infertility and trouble conceiving.

20 March 2024/by CLINIC TEAM

A question of balance: understanding hormones and fertility

Fertility Health, Infertility, News

Women have a complex, interconnected hormone network that can impact fertility.

Hormones are chemicals primarily produced in the endocrine glands, and they act as messengers that control and influence different bodily functions, including conception and pregnancy.

A hormonal imbalance is when your body produces too much or too little of a particular hormone. Conception relies on a carefully choreographed mix of hormones produced in a specific sequence during the menstrual cycle so that a small change can disrupt the hormones and fertility process.

In our latest blog, we discuss the 7 major fertility hormones that are at play when trying to conceive:

Hormones and fertility

1 Oestrogen

Oestrogen is the primary female hormone; it kickstarts puberty and continues to regulate the menstrual cycle, among many other essential bodily functions. Produced by the ovaries and placenta, it maintains the uterine lining and regulates other key fertility hormones.

2 Progesterone

Mainly made in the ovaries, progesterone helps regulate your menstrual cycle, and after ovulation, it helps the uterine lining to become receptive to the implantation of a fertilised egg. It also prevents the uterine muscles from contracting so the egg is not rejected. Low progesterone levels are thought to play a role in recurrent miscarriage.

3 Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)

The pituitary gland in the brain makes this hormone and signals the ovaries to grow eggs. It also stimulates oestrogen production at this stage, which is necessary for the body to produce a surge of luteinising hormone (LH), leading to ovulation. This also has an impact on the cervical mucus. When ovulating, the cervical mucus changes from thick and white or creamy to stretchy and clear, which helps the sperm survive and fertilise the egg.

4 Luteinising hormone (LH)

Another hormone produced by the pituitary gland, LH works in concert with FSH. LH levels must rise just before ovulation to trigger the release of the egg from the follicle. An imbalance in LH is often a cause of irregular menstruation.

5 Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

Often known as the pregnancy hormone, hCG is only produced by the body when you’ve conceived. hCG levels rise just after conception until about ten weeks in pregnancy, and it’s this chemical that pregnancy tests detect and measure. It tells the body to stop menstruation and helps thicken the uterine lining to support the growing embryo

6 Prolactin

Made by the pituitary gland, prolactin is a critical player in regulating your menstrual cycle. An imbalance in prolactin, especially if produced in excess, can cause menstrual and fertility problems.

7 Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)

AMH is produced in the ovarian follicles and is responsible for maintaining your body’s immature eggs and regulating the number of growing follicles and their selection for ovulation. If you’re undergoing IVF, measuring the levels of AMH can be used to estimate your ovarian reserve

AMH remains consistent throughout your menstrual cycle, whereas other hormones fluctuate. For this reason, we can test your AMH level at any point during your process and this will provide us with an indicator of your current reproductive potential. If the level of your AMH is low, this does not necessarily mean you will not be able to conceive.

AMH levels strongly correlate with the antral follicle count (AFC), and when combined, we can provide you with a clearer understanding of your fertility. Get in touch to arrange your Female Fertility Investigation at Aria Clinic.

Call +44 (0) 203 263 6025 or email us at admin@ariafertility.co.uk.

11 October 2023/by CLINIC TEAM

How does PCOS affect your fertility?

Fertility Health, Gynaecological Health, Infertility, News

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a common, although often underdiagnosed, condition affecting women in the UK. It is thought to affect more than one in 10 women, and those suffering from PCOS often have concerns about whether they can successfully have a family.

In September, we focus on PCOS, aiming to raise awareness of this often-distressing metabolic disease, which can cause many symptoms, including difficulties conceiving and complications while pregnant.

PCOS and fertility

Symptoms vary from person to person and in severity, but they can include:

Menstrual problems
Difficulty conceiving
Increased body and facial hair caused by high levels of male hormones
Weight gain
Thinning hair
Acne

It affects your ability to get pregnant in several ways. Your ovaries are typically enlarged, with many follicles containing immature eggs that fail to mature and release an egg, meaning many women have irregular periods or no periods.

PCOS can also cause weight gain and a high BMI, making it more difficult to conceive. However, a diagnosis of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome does not mean you cannot have a baby.

Whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or contemplating fertility treatment, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of success.

PCOS and nutrition

One of the first steps is to try and achieve hormonal balance by addressing diet. Fertility nutritionist Melanie Brown is particularly interested in endometriosis and PCOS and the effect of nutrition on ameliorating their adverse impact on fertility.

“First and foremost, PCOS is a challenging condition for women to live with, and it is also very tough to treat,” Mel explains. “Often the advice when you’re first diagnosed is to go on the pill which masks many symptoms. Many PCOS sufferers come off the pill when they want to start a family and find that their periods might not come back, whereas symptoms such as acne or facial hair return with a vengeance.

“Whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or about to undergo IVF, it’s ideal to prepare your body and improve egg quality. It is also good to reduce abdominal fat, which is often an issue for those suffering from polycystic ovaries, without crash dieting, which is not good for your fertility.”

Melanie explains that her approach to treating PCOS patients is similar to all her fertility patients but emphasises controlling blood sugar. Although the cause of PCOS is not entirely understood, it is believed that abnormal levels of the luteinising hormone (LH) and high levels of male hormones interfere with the normal function of the ovaries.

LH is released at a certain point in your menstrual cycle to stimulate the ovarian follicles to mature and release an egg. PCOS sufferers already have high levels of LH, which means they fail to ovulate normally. We also know that glucose-induced insulin spikes further increase the production of testosterone and LH.

“The basis is always a low glycaemic, low carb diet. As well as its impact on our hormones, a dysregulated blood sugar mechanism means that insulin no longer packages up glucose neatly and delivers it to the liver. Instead, it panics and stores it in your fat cells, particularly around your abdomen.

I always check vitamin D levels as many people, particularly those with a higher BMI, are deficient in it without realising it, and it’s important for fertility. As well as a high dose of vitamin D, I recommend supplements that control blood sugar and inflammation and balance hormones such as Inofolic to my PCOS patients.

“Weight gain is a common symptom of PCOS, and many of my patients have been living with this issue for many years. Often, I have to override the messages we’ve been fed by the diet and food industry for decades and explain that peanut butter on rye toast, avocados and full-fat humus are far better for you than Special K, diet coke and low-fat yoghurt.

“Education is always critical. If patients understand what’s happening in their bodies, brains and biome, they can make positive and informed choices.”

PCOS fertility treatments at Aria Fertility

Consultant gynaecologist Miss Amanda Tozer at Aria Fertility is an expert in general gynaecology and women’s health. She has a comprehensive knowledge of menstrual disorders, including endometriosis, PCOS and fibroids. She will investigate symptoms with a physical exam and complete a medical history check.

She can perform ultrasound imaging to check for cysts in the ovaries. You may also need a blood test to check your hormone and insulin levels.

Miss Tozer can offer advice on potential treatments depending on your symptoms and needs, including lifestyle advice, supplements, hormonal control and possible fertility treatments.

Treatment options include induction of ovulation, where fertility medication is used to gently stimulate your ovaries to produce and release a mature egg. You can then either attempt to conceive naturally or through intrauterine insemination (IUI). In general, IVF success rates are excellent for cases of infertility caused by PCOS. Women with POCS may be at higher risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), but our experienced fertility doctors are highly skilled in treating PCOS patients and will take every precaution to prevent and manage OHSS.

For more advice on anything fertility and nutrition-related, see Mel’s website: melaniebrownnutrition.com. Call +44 (0) 203 263 6025 or email us at admin@ariafertility.co.uk for advice on preparing for IVF.

For more information on the individual practitioners and organisations offering support, advice, and information to those undergoing fertility treatment, please visit our Support Hub. To discuss your fertility options with one of our specialists, call xxx.

26 September 2023/by CLINIC TEAM

Can you improve egg health for IVF?

FAQs, Fertility Health, Fertility Nutrition, IVF, News

In vitro fertilisation is a challenging time as it’s both emotionally and physically demanding, and one way to prepare for IVF is to focus on the potential benefits of improving egg quality or ovarian function through lifestyle changes, such as nutrition.

Leading fertility nutritionist Melanie Brown believes nutrition can help improve fertility.

“Women are constantly being told nothing can improve the quality of their eggs. And while we are all born with the eggs we shall ever have in our lifetimes, the environment in which those eggs mature is fundamental to their quality, so this assertion is not strictly true.

“There are many reasons why someone’s egg quality or ovarian function might not be optimal and can be positively influenced.

“We know that smoking damages egg quality, so conversely, I believe that nutrition and other lifestyle changes could also help to improve egg quality. If you can do something that adversely affects egg health, it shows they are not immune to their environment.”

IVF vs a normal menstrual cycle

During a normal menstrual cycle, many follicles containing immature egg cells or oocytes will develop and grow when your body releases a follicle-stimulating hormone called FSH.

Typically, one standout follicle grows faster than all the others, known as the dominant follicle. It sends a signal to decrease the amount of FSH being produced, which causes the other follicles to cease developing, leaving only the one dominant follicle to continue growing and the egg inside to mature.

In an IVF cycle, however, the goal is to grow multiple follicles simultaneously, a process that does not occur in a natural cycle.

“I often say to my patients, if you look at the progress of an IVF cycle as a flow chart, you can see how important it is to ensure you are as well prepared as possible,” Melanie explains. “You might have 18 follicles, which release 14 eggs, 10 of which are mature eggs, from which eight go on to be fertilised, six then go through to day three, and maybe two become day 5 blastocysts.”

Preparing for IVF with nutrition

“I can also advise patients on all the fertility-improving strategies out there on the internet – milk or no milk, soya or no soya, is DHEA right for you, how do I use melatonin?

“There’s an ever-running argument about milk consumption during IVF. Many nutritionists think milk is the devil’s work as it’s very inflammatory and can be a factor in everything from acne to polycystic ovaries. And I certainly think that’s true for those that suffer from certain conditions.

“But, if you don’t suffer from those conditions, I think there’s quite an argument for consuming milk in an IVF cycle. Milk is meant to grow baby animals and full-fat milk is full of growth factors and growth-promoting nutrients.

“Iron takes oxygen to our cells, so if you are even slightly anaemic, then it means you’re not getting enough oxygen to your ovaries. Yet, many people might be entering an IVF cycle with mild anaemia – if you have undiagnosed endometriosis, very heavy periods or have a vegetarian or vegan diet.

“A protein-rich diet is essential to support multiple follicle growth during an IVF cycle. Protein makes up the building blocks for every cell in our bodies, including our sperm and eggs. So ensuring you have the right amount of protein is essential.

“I see maximising ovarian function and potentially improving egg quality before IVF, as a ‘project’ – usually three months will do it.”

For more information on the individual practitioners and organisations offering support, advice, and information to those undergoing fertility treatment, please visit our Support Hub.

24 July 2023/by CLINIC TEAM