Not enough hormones are being produced or released. Hormones produced by the adrenals are not produced in abundance the adrenals become sluggish. Research tells us that stress boosts levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, which inhibits the body’s main sex hormones GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone) and subsequently suppresses ovulation, sexual activity, and sperm count.Īs chronic stress continues long-term, the adrenals no longer can keep up. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which may contribute to infertility. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. The presence of adrenalin, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. At first, the adrenal glands are overworked they are repeatedly stimulated by stressful situations, causing the constant release of adrenaline and cortisol. Then over time, a person may find that their life situation is presented with a constant stressful state. The adrenal glands also produce the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol.Ĭhronic Stress Affects our Fertility in Two Different WaysĪ person that lives a balanced life has adrenal glands that are healthy and function at a normal level. Some of our progesterone is also produced by the adrenal glands as well. Androgens include DHEA (the precursor to estrogen), testosterone, androstenedione, testosterone being the most recognized of the androgens. For fertility, the cortex is the most important, it releases androgens.

The adrenals are made up of two structures, the adrenal cortex is the outer layer, the medulla is the inner layer. Stress may arise from intense emotion, physical bodily injury or overexertion, or through environmental factors such as toxins. The adrenals release certain hormones in response to stress.

The adrenal glands sit atop our kidneys, like little caps. Hormones deliver messages the endocrine system coordinates hormones. The main function of the endocrine system is to serve as our body’s message center. Our endocrine system is comprised of many glands that all serve important function for our bodies to maintain healthy homeostasis.

Adrenal glands are part of the major endocrine glands. Did you know that your adrenal health is important for fertility? Supporting adrenal health is important for proper hormonal balance.

Hyperactive adrenal gland symptoms