A busy life reduces the chances of becoming pregnant, according to a new study.

Scientists from Oxford University found that women with high levels of adrenaline caused by having a hectic schedule were less likely to fall pregnant

Results from the study, which was published in the journal ‘Fertility and Sterility’, showed that those women with the highest levels of adrenaline were 12 per cent less likely to conceive in the first month than those who scored the lowest levels.

Lead author of the study, Celia Pyper said:

“The findings support the idea that couples should aim to stay as relaxed as they can about trying for a baby. For some people it might be relevant to look at relaxation techniques, counselling and even approaches like yoga and meditation.”

Until now, stress affecting the ability to conceive has only been based on supposition. Improved conception rates among women having IVF have been observed when enrolling in relaxation classes.

This latest research involved 274 women aged 18-40 keeping a diary of their menstruation cycle, lifestyle habits (such as drinking and smoking) and sexual activity. On the sixth day of their cycle, participants were asked to collect a saliva swab sample from the inside of the cheek.

From the sample, two biological markers were measured – one for a hormone linked to chronic stress and one to indicate adrenaline. Results showed that only adrenaline levels reduced the ability to conceive.

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