Friday, February 25, 2011

New study shows stress does not affect IVF treatments

A common question asked by patients undergoing infertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) is about the impact of stress on the chances of pregnancy.  Patients are frequently faced with stressors including busy work schedules, time away from work for treatments, and the stress of dealing with infertility.  A recent study on the impact of stress and IVF outcomes shows women are just as likely to become pregnant when they face life's stressors as women that do not face similar stress.

Fertility centers have always been concerned about the effect of stress on fertility treatments and the chances of becoming pregnant naturally.  While this study provides some relief, doctors at California IVF: Davis Fertility Center, Inc. still encourage women to reduce stress whenever possible.  One avenue that has been beneficial to many patients is acupuncture combined with infertility treatments.  Patients seeking help through clinical psychologists also report significantly lower levels of stress.

California IVF physicians and staff seek to reduce the stress experienced by patients undergoing IVF by providing extensive information and education about the IVF process.  Medication teaching, embryology's "egg class", and detailed explanations by the doctors help to put patients at ease.  We continue to stand behind our commitment to treat our patients as family.  Having difficulty getting pregnant can be stressful, but getting help should not be.