A scientific study has shown that high stress levels may delay pregnancy. Oxford University has measured stress hormones in women planning a baby naturally and found that the most stressed reduced their chances of becoming pregnant. More research is of course needed but this should not come as a surprise. Stress has major implications for health of both men and women and research continues to find links with conditions as diverse as high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, stomach ulcers and sexual dysfunction.

We sometimes need support in managing stress. Dr Ali Shakir has 10 years’ experience helping clients manage stress. He will soon be uploading a short video on basic stress management techniques we hope you find useful.