Truth: Your lack of sleep is impacting your fertility.
I was on a fertility webinar recently and I got a question from a woman who wanted to if her her sleep was impacting her fertility, and I’ll bet she’s not the only one who’s wondering this. Maybe you are, too?
The quick and dirty answer is… Your instincts are right – lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep absolutely can have a negative effect on fertility over the long term.
Why?
Here’s what’s going on: While you sleep, your body releases hormones, including fertility-related hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle and ovulation.
Studies have actually shown a correlation between insomnia and infertility and disrupted menstrual cycles.
So what’s a girl to do?
My first piece of advice as a trained infertility specialist is to maintain a consistent schedule. (I know, I know, it’s hard enough to meet deadlines at work, how can you possibly put a deadline on sleep?!)
For starters, set your alarm to go off at the same time each night so you know when to go to bed, and another one to wake you up at the same time each morning.
Next, unplug!
Yes, that means to Facebook, Pinterest, email and that family text message chain that’s always going off.
Especially these days, it’s so so important to give yourself a break and actually turn off (gasp!) your phone and other electronics an hour or more before bedtime. (I promise after just a few nights of doing this, it’ll get easier and easier)
Third, keep your bedroom cool and dark. This means reducing or eliminating any ambient noise and light.
Pro tip: Try blackout drapes, shades or an eye mask.
Last, do breathing exercises or meditation to transition your body and mind to sleep mode.
I’ll leave you with this final Hot Tip: Save the bedroom for sex and sleep ONLY. This signals to your brain that the bedroom is for baby-making and rejuvenation time…not work or stress.
I’ve packed a LOT more tips and strategies like these in my free guide, Lifestyle Tips to Boost Fertility in You can grab a copy here.