Supportive Strategy to help Reduce Stress Levels during Fertility Treatments

If you are moving through fertility care, you already know that stress can show up everywhere. It can affect sleep, mood, decision making, relationships, and how you feel about treatment from one day to the next. A recent randomized clinical trial looked at a simple supportive practice during IVF and found encouraging results with aromatherapy using lemon balm essential oil.

Details about the Study:

Eighty six patients undergoing IVF were randomized to use inhaled lemon balm aromatherapy or a placebo for two weeks, twice daily, during the stimulation phase. Stress was measured before and after using the Fertility Problem Inventory, a validated questionnaire for infertility related stress. The aromatherapy group showed a statistically significant reduction in perceived stress compared to the control group after the intervention.

The Science behind Aromatherapy:

When inhaled, essential oil molecules stimulate the olfactory center in the brain, which is closely connected to the limbic system (the area that regulates emotion, memory, and stress responses). Research suggests this pathway may influence neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), helping to promote relaxation and reduce stress signals

Why this is Important?

Stress is common in those pursuing assisted reproductive treatments. Addressing emotional health alongside medical care can improve the overall treatment experience and may support engagement with care. Complementary options that are affordable, easy to use, and non-invasive are increasingly welcomed in clinical settings to help reduce negative emotions during stressful periods. Aromatherapy is one of these supportive tools.

A Holistic View of Fertility Care:

Holistic care means we look at the whole person. That includes medical treatment plans, but also the day to day practices that help you feel grounded and supported.

What we often include at our clinic

• Stress reduction strategies such as breathing practices, guided relaxation, acupuncture, and where appropriate aromatherapy

• Nutrition and lifestyle guidance tailored to your diagnosis and support fertility treatment goals

• Adjunctive treatment to support treatment of undelrying conditions (i.e. PCOS, endometriosis, sperm-factor infertility among others)

• Collaborative planning with your fertility clinic so supportive care fits safely around IVF or IUI protocols

• Attention to sleep, movement, and emotional wellbeing so you feel more in control of your journey

Understanding the Evidence:

This study is promising and adds to a growing body of work on aromatherapy in stressful clinical settings. At the same time, it measured perceived stress over two weeks, not long term outcomes such as live birth, and it relied on patient reported questionnaires. Findings should be viewed as supportive for wellbeing rather than as a substitute for medical treatment.

Next Steps:

If you are preparing for IUI or IVF, or simply exploring ways to improve your fertility journey, we are here to support you. During appointment visits we review your medical history, discuss your goals, and create a personalized plan that integrates medical and holistic care.

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Book a consultation to explore your symptoms and history in more depth. Together, we can create a targeted, compassionate, and proactive strategy to support your reproductive health.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your Naturopathic Doctor before starting any new supplement, especially during fertility treatments like IVF.