The holiday season is the most stressful time of the year. From travel plans to picking out the perfect gifts, stress can pile up rather quickly. In addition to slowing down your immune system, stress has an adverse effect on several bodily functions, including:
Stress and your period.
Stress can have an impact on your period. It can make it irregular or even cause it to temporarily stop. Once the stress is reduced down to a manageable level, the regularity of the period should return.
Stress and your fertility.
If you suffer from chronic stress, it may be affecting your fertility. It may interfere with other glands in the endocrine system from producing the hormones to send the signal to your ovaries to release an egg each month. In addition, stressed out patients who are undergoing IVF treatments are less successful than those who are not stressed out.
Stress and your PH balance.
Your pH balance is sensitive and can be easily thrown off by stress. The disruption of it can cause conditions such as a yeast infection which comes with uncomfortable symptoms like itching and requires treatment. pH imbalance can also cause bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal infection that requires antibiotics to be resolved.
Although it is a part of everyday life, don’t let stress - stress you out. There are some things that you can do to reduce it. The first thing is to recognize when you’re experiencing it. When you are aware of what is going on with your body, it is easier to respond to it in a healthier way.
Additionally, pay attention to your breathing. Unfortunately, most Americans are shallow breathers. Practice taking deep breaths throughout your day, especially when you are feeling overwhelmed. It will help mediate your stress.
The holidays can be a stressful time but they don’t have to be. If you’re experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, schedule an appointment with us by calling (631) 587-2500.