Fragmented sleep may influence fertility

by wisedane · November 13, 2019

Sleep is a naturally relaxing state of mind and body. Sleep occurs in repeating cycles, in which the body alternates between two distinct modes. These periods of sleep have different types of eye movements like rapid and slow. Rapid eye movements occur in early part of sleeping phase and also associated with dreams. Non rapid movement sleep phase is called deep sleep where brain uses less energy. Sleep is essential to rejuvenate the body. Scientifically during sleep phase energy supply to all body parts are restored. Sleep plays a vital role in all our lives, affecting the quality of life, overall health, and, importantly, fertility

The relationship between sleep and fertility is largely unknown. However women health and well being is affected by sleep deprivation. Reproductive and endocrine functions are dependent on sleep cycles and relaxation of mind. Disorders of menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause are closely related with the sleep pattern in women. Sleep deprivation and stress have been related to infertility in both men and women. Fragmented sleep patterns affect the fertility hormone secretion directly. There is more chances of pregnancy related mishap in women working in shifts. Problems with fertility, conception, implantation, gestation, delivery, and/or neonatal health are among the common problems.

Among both women and men, it is well established that sleep disorders, particularly insomnia, contribute to health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, glucose intolerance, depression, and anxiety disorders. Specific to women, sleep disturbances coincide with premenstrual dysphoria, pregnancy, postpartum depression, and the menopausal transition. Problems with fertility, conception, implantation, gestation, delivery, and/or neonatal health seem to be affected by sleep patterns. Adverse reproductive health outcomes like menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, infertility, repeated miscarriages, lower birth weights are some of the related complications.