Trying to get pregnant can be a source of anxiety, especially if attempts to conceive are not successful. Stress itself can also affect female fertility. To cope with anxiety, fears, and stress, some women choose to take natural dietary supplements.
All the ingredients in my dietary supplement are natural. Does this mean they are safe?
It's not that simple. Even the most popular components of dietary supplements intended to help with stress and anxiety can raise safety concerns. For example, St. John's Wort, in certain combinations, can lead to a life-threatening rise in serotonin [1]. High levels of valepotriates, an active compound found in valerian (another popular natural supplement for stress) may negatively affect female fertility and be toxic to the fetus [2]. Chamomile does not seem to have any side effects, but its effectiveness has not yet been proven [3].
Can I take an anti-stress supplement if it does not contain any questionable ingredients?
It is a controversial subject. It is difficult to predict how supplements with relaxing effects will behave when combined with other ingredients or components found in other dietary supplements. There are simply no large-scale clinical studies regarding the effect these supplements may have on pregnant women.
In addition, the market for dietary supplements is not strictly regulated or controlled (unlike prescription drugs) [4]. They have not been thoroughly researched because, in most countries, it is simply not required.
In addition, the list of ingredients on supplement labels may be unclear [4, 5], and what is actually inside those colorful capsules can be difficult to determine; they may contain substances potentially dangerous for women trying to get pregnant.
It is especially important for women undergoing IVF treatment or taking medication to treat a chronic disease to avoid even seemingly harmless plant-derived supplements and their active components. They can potentially reduce the effect of prescription or fertility drugs, block their intended purpose, or lead to complications.
What should I do?
Avoid taking any supplements without consulting with your doctor. Try to improve your mood in simpler, less risky ways. Try to strengthen your relationships with people who love and support you, and find a hobby that helps you relax, exercise, or take a walk outdoors. If your stress levels reach an unhealthy level, consult a psychologist or psychiatrist promptly.
