Depression can lead to infertility

Fertility, in both women and men, can be seriously compromised by depression. A growing body of scientific research confirms this risk, a sort of side effect, among many, of the "pain of living."

There are various scientific reasons why a depressed person can easily become infertile.

• First of all, there are hormonal changes: depression and anxiety can affect the endocrine system, particularly by altering the levels of key hormones such as GnRH and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are necessary for optimal ovarian function.

• Increases cortisol, which can interfere with reproductive hormones (such as testosterone).

• Severe stress, often associated with depression, can reduce the chances of conceiving by 45%, especially if they occur during the ovulatory window.
• Lifestyles: Those who are depressed may adopt lifestyle habits that increase the risk of infertility. For example: 

1. irregular sleep
2. less balanced diet
3. smoking or alcohol
   These are all factors that affect sperm quality.

• Antidepressant drugs: Some (especially certain SSRIs) may affect:

1. libido
2. ejaculation
3. in some cases also on seminal parameters

A study from the month of May 2024 published Scientific Reports Researchers at Nagoya University have identified that serotonin-producing neurons function as energy sensors, linking glucose availability, serotonin levels, and fertility. The research suggests that low levels ofSerotonin associated with depression impairs fertilityby reducing neuronal activation, proposing that SSRI treatments could potentially address both mood and fertility problems. 

Read also: 

• How to get out of depression
• Why Depression Increases (VIDEO)