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Yoga Can Improve Assisted Reproduction Technology Outcomes in Couples With Infertility

Authors:

Abstract

Context: Depending on the cause of the infertility, nonsurgical or surgical treatments may be used to treat men and women with infertility. Despite improved outcomes due to medical advances, assisted reproductive technology (ART) for couples with infertility is sometimes unsuccessful. Success may be affected by the patient's social, psychological, and physical status. Objective: The study examined the effects of yoga-including asanas (yoga poses), pranayama (proper breathing), shavasana, and meditation-on male and female fertility and ART outcomes. Design: The research team performed a literature review, electronically searching for articles published between January 1978 and January 2016 in the PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. Setting: The study took place at the Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center at the Avicenna Research Institute at the Academic Center for Education, Culture, and Research (Tehran, Iran). Participants: Participants were couples with infertility taking part in 87 reviewed studies. Intervention: Yoga was the intervention. Outcome measures: The outcome measures comprised fertility factors in males and females, fertility rate, and ART success rate. Results: The reviewed studies showed that yoga can provide stress management for patients with infertility, with beneficial effects on fertility, helping couples give birth. They found that yoga also could reduce pain; decrease depression, anxiety, and stress; reduce the rate of assisted vaginal delivery; and improve fetal outcomes. Conclusions: Yoga can help couples overcome infertility and increase the ART success rate by improving the physiological and psychological states of both men and women.
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Yoga Can Improve Assisted Reproduction
Technology Outcomes in Couples With Infertility
Sara Darbandi, PhD(c); Mahsa Darbandi, PhD(c); Hamid Reza Khorram Khorshid, MD, PhD;
Mohammad Reza Sadeghi, PhD
REVIEW ARTICLE
ABSTRACT
Context • Depending on the cause of the infertility,
nonsurgical or surgical treatments may be used to treat
men and women with infertility. Despite improved
outcomes due to medical advances, assisted reproductive
technology (ART) for couples with infertility is sometimes
unsuccessful. Success may be aected by the patient’s
social, psychological, and physical status.
Objective • e study examined the eects of yoga—
including asanas (yoga poses), pranayama
(proper breathing), shavasana, and meditation—on male
and female fertility and ART outcomes.
Design • e research team performed a literature review,
electronically searching for articles published between
January 1978 and January 2016 in the PubMed, Scopus,
ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases.
Setting • e study took place at the Reproductive
Biotechnology Research Center at the Avicenna Research
Institute at the Academic Center for Education, Culture,
and Research (Tehran, Iran).
Participants • Participants were couples with infertility
taking part in 87 reviewed studies.
Intervention • Yoga was the intervention.
Outcome Measures • e outcome measures comprised
fertility factors in males and females, fertility rate, and
ART success rate.
Results • e reviewed studies showed that yoga can
provide stress management for patients with infertility,
with benecial eects on fertility, helping couples give
birth. ey found that yoga also could reduce pain;
decrease depression, anxiety, and stress; reduce the rate of
assisted vaginal delivery; and improve fetal outcomes.
Conclusions • Yoga can help couples overcome infertility
and increase the ART success rate by improving the
physiological and psychological states of both men and
women. (Altern er Health Med. [E-pub ahead of print.])
Sara Darbandi, MSc, is a PhD student; Mahsa Darbandi, MSc, is
a PhD student; and Hamid Reza Khorram Khorshid, MD, PhD,
is a full professor at the Genetics Research Center, University
of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, in Tehran,
Iran. Mohammad Reza Sadeghi, PhD, is a full professor at
the Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna
Research Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture,
and Research, in Tehran, Iran.
Corresponding author: Mahsa Darbandi, PhD(c)
E-mail address: mahsadarbandi@hotmail.com
Corresponding author: Mohammad Resa Sadeghi, PhD
E-mail address: sadeghi@avicenna.ac.ir
Fertilization is viewed as a simple notion, wherein
sperm and ova join and the result is a new life, but the
process is actually a series of long and complex events
that must take place in a certain order. Infertility occurs in
8% to 12% of the world’s couples because of genetic,
psychological, anatomical, endocrinological, and
immunological problems that aect both female and male
reproductive health.1,2
Infertility rates vary signicantly among countries and
regions, based on the prevalence of disease leading to
infertility.2 General factors aecting female infertility
(ie, the ability to ovulate, conceive, or deliver a child
successfully) include age, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian
syndrome (PCOS), chronic diseases, hormonal imbalance,
environmental factors, excessive or very low body fat, sexually
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transmitted diseases, mullerian anomalies, fallopian tube
disease, blockage of the cervix, multiple miscarriages, and
amenorrhea.2-6
Although womens infertility is the greater focus of
research and attention in health care, male infertility is the
cause in or contributing factor to infertility in approximately
half of couples with infertility.1 Nearly 30% to 40% of all
infertility is a result of male factors, and approximately 8% of
men request medical help for problems associated with
fertility.1,7,8 Some risk factors that can result in a decline in a
mans seminal quality include a history of prostatitis, genital
infections, sexually transmitted diseases, oxidative stress,
hernia repair, undescended testicles, and mumps aer
pu ber ty.2,6,9,10 Investigators have found that a 2% reduction in
the quality of male sperm occurs annually.2,11
Environmental stress and pollution are important
parameters that can reduce hormonal proles that stimulate
spermatogenesis.2 Recently, infertility rates have been
growing throughout the world, and the need for infertility
treatments and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs)
has increased.1,7 Accordingly, nonsurgical or surgical
treatments, including hormone therapy, in vitro fertilization
(IVF), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, may be used to
treat men and women with infertility. Despite these medical
improvements, treatment remains largely unsuccessful.
Studies have shown that patients’ social, mental, and
physical states can strongly aect ART’s success.12-15 Although
antianxiety and antidepressant medications can reduce stress,
they have side eects, such as a decrease in sexual drive, an
inability to orgasm, and erectile dysfunction.16,17
Complementary approaches to reproductive wellness,
such as the methods of traditional Chinese medicine,
ayurveda, yoga, and mind-body techniques for stress reduction
have recently been introduced in the ART eld.7,18-21 Yoga is a
form of alternative medicine that claims to improve a person’s
health by reducing stress and regulating hormonal
secretions.18,19,21-23
e aim of the current study was to review the eects of
yoga—including asanas (yoga poses), pranayama
(proper breathing), shavasana, and meditation—on couples’
fertility and on ART outcomes.
METHODS
Procedures
In this review, the research team searched the following
electronic databases between January 1978 and January 2016.
e documents were obtained from PubMed, Scopus, Science
Direct, and Google Scholar using the keywords yoga, fertility,
infertility, and reproduction. Two members of the research
team evaluated the studies. e study included articles if the
studies evaluated the eects of yoga on fertility factors and
pregnant women who were randomized to yoga and control
groups. ere were no severe limits on control groups.
erefore, any trials that compared yoga to usual care or any
other physical or mental care were qualied. Today, there are
dierent types of yoga. Some included only physical exercise,
such as stretching, shavasana, or other asana postures. Other
kinds of yoga also included pranayama, meditation, or deep
relaxation. e research team included all types of studies
and all types of yoga and reviewed only studies in English.
e search provided 43 169 articles. Nonrandomized or
uncontrolled trials, irrelevant articles, duplicated articles, or
articles with duplicated data were excluded, and the remaining
87 articles were evaluated.
Participants
Participants were couples with infertility taking part in
the 87 reviewed studies. Couples with infertility were married
couples not being able to get pregnant aer trying for 1 year.
e present study comprised couples who were aged 18 to 45
years and evidence was from 5 continents.
Intervention
is study included all types of yoga as the intervention.
Yoga combines breathing, meditation, and postures to bring
harmony to the chakra system. It is also used to awaken the
essential life force, known as kundalini energy, which is
housed in the root base chakra at the base root of spine. e
studies generally were between 6 and 20 weeks in duration.
Outcome Measures
e outcome measures comprised fertility factors in
males such as sperm count, sperm motility, prostate
secretion, genital inammatory, varicocele, intravaginal
ejaculation time, testosterone secretion, sexual desire and
arousal, and DNA integrity of sperm. In females, fertility
factors measured may include ovulation management and
oocytes improvement; the serum levels of cortisol,
adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine, testosterone,
luteinizing hormone (LH), and antimullerian hormone
(AMH); fertility rate; ART success rate; back, lumbopelvic,
and other physical pain; satisfaction with pain relief;
depression; anxiety; and stress.
RESULTS
In total, 87 articles were evaluated in the review.
Women With Infertility
Stress Relief. e reviewed studies supported the
hypothesis that yoga could help couples give birth24-31 by
(1) reducing their anxiety and depression31-57; (2) improving
their sleep58; (3) helping them manage the stresses of pregnancy,
labor, and birth32-42,44,45,47,48,55,59-68; and (4) improving their
quality of life during pregnancy or aer stillbirth for women.55,69
Yoga also was found to (1) reduce back, lumbopelvic,
and other physical pain51,53,56,70-73 and (2) increase satisfaction
with pain relief.70
Investigators also reported that stress management in
patients with infertility had benecial eects on fertility.74-78
In couples with infertility, yoga could (1) manage ovulation
and oocytes improvement for fertility79,80 and (2) decrease
depression, anxiety, and stress.53,81,82
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Yoga Types and Poses
Qualied breathing can help the body’s organs receive
proper oxygen and energy for full functionality.19,104,105 For
people dealing with infertility, studies have found that the
benecial yoga asanas for strengthening core, legs, and feet
and can help to move energy in the sacral chakra area, while
being rmly rooted through the feet and balanced throughout
the root chakra. ese poses are (1) Standing Forward Bend
(Uttanasana), (2) Garland (Malasana), (3) Head-to-Knee
Forward Bend (Janu Sirsasana), (4) Reclining Bound Angle
(Supta Baddha Konasana), (5) Wide-Legged Forward Bend
(Prasarita Padottanasana), (6) Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II),
(7) Mountain Pose (Tadasana), (8) Warrior One Pose
(Virabhadrasana 1), and (9) Bridge Pose
(Setu Bhandasana).19,28,106 Other poses that could be useful
are (1) Pigeon, (2) Wide-Angle Seated Forward Bend
(Upavistha Konasana), (3) Cow Face (Gomukhasana),
(4) One-Legged King Pigeon (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana),
(5) Bound Angle (Baddha Konasana), (6) Revolved Triangle
(Parivrtta Trikonasana), (7) Full Boat (Paripurna Navasana),
(8) Chair (Utkatasana), (9) Triangle Pose (Trikonasana),
(10) Child Pose (Balasana), (11) Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana),
(12) Dancer’s Pose (Natarajasana), and (13) Sun Salutation
(Surya Namaskar),19,28,106 which benets the whole body and
all of the chakras.
DISCUSSION
e reviewed studies provide evidence that yogacan help
couples overcome infertility and improve the ART success rate
by reducing anxiety and depression,40,107,108 decreasing stress,107
regulating 8 hormonal secretions, increasing quality of life, and
raising fertility rates.10,18,19,22,23,104,105,109-111
Following stress, the endocrinal organ system releases
stress-related hormones, such as cortisol and adrenalin.15,112
Smith et al113 showed that the LH hormone levels decreased
in female ovaries as a result, and ovulation was disrupted or
even paused.
High levels of cortisol have been found to be strongly
associated with miscarriage.15,112 Studies from the past several
decades have demonstrated that high stress levels are strongly
correlated to infertility.74,114-116 In IVF patients, some studies
have shown that the rates of implantation increased when
daily adrenalin levels were lower.19,114,115 Other studies have
shown a similar correlation when measuring cortisol
levels.19,114,115
ese results indicate that couples with infertility can
be more successful at reproduction when they lead less
stressful lives.117,118 Frederiksen et al119 showed that
chronically stressed women produced less of the
gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which prevented
ovulation by starting a cascade of hormonally related
changes. One study showed that women who are very
underweight or overweight do not ovulate normally and
also have hormonal imbalances.120
In men, stress was shown to aect fertility both by
lowering sperm volume and by raising the percentage of
Hormonal Changes. Two studies found that alpha
brain waves increased and serum cortisol signicantly
decreased during yoga.10,83 Schmidt et al found the 3 months
of yoga could decrease the rate of urinary excretion of
adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine, and aldosterone as
well as improve the serum levels of testosterone and LH and
increase cortisol excretion.84 Other researchers have
conrmed that yoga can reduce cortisol levels in
women.46,50,85-87
Exercise via 30 minutes per day of asanas, pranayama,
meditation, and shavasana helped patients with PCOS lose
weight and manage stress, which ultimately stabilizes the
normal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian
axis.88 Also, in 3 studies,89,90,91,92 a 12-week yoga program
helped participants reduce their levels of AMH, LH, and
testosterone, and one of those studies found improved
menstrual frequency90; one found lower anxiety90; and one
increased the quality of life of adolescents with PCOS.91
Pregnancy. Yoga was found to (1) reduce hypertensive-
related pregnancies,62,92 (2) improve fetal outcomes,62,92
(3) increase the infants’ birth weights,61 (4) decrease
intrauterine growth retardation,61,62 and (5) reduce the rate of
assisted vaginal delivery.70
One study found that women who were more distressed
than other women were more likely to accept psychological
support before starting an IVF cycle.93 A study of
143 women with infertility demonstrated that yoga could
decrease distress in women before they started their rst
IVF cycle93 and showed that it was better to start its practice
at least 6 weeksbefore starting the cycle.94 In addition, for
women who become pregnant via IVF, yoga decreased
stress, anxiety, and labor pains and increased delivery
condence.39,95
Men With Infertility
e benets of regular yoga practice were not limited to
women with infertility; men with infertility also
beneted.11,96-99 Sperm count, sperm motility, and prostate
secretion showed improvement in men who practiced yoga.10
Some investigators indicated that yoga could improve genital
inammatory conditions, in addition to increasing sperm
parameters and motility, and also could improve immune
system disorders, varicocele,96 and intravaginal ejaculation
time and decrease sexual dysfunction.100
Hu et al96 also found that yoga could help regulate
endocrinal glands and the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
In men, practicing the Root Bond pose (Mula Bandha) was
found to be correlated with relieving spermatorrhea,
preventing inguinal hernia and regulating testosterone
secretion,10 whereas the Mula Bandha pose could increase
genital arousal sensations for improving sexual desire and
arousal.10 Other ndings showed that yoga could aect the
DNA integrity of sperm and reduce some markers of oxidative
stress, such as telomerase activity, telomere length, and DNA
fragmentation,101,102 and also could delay aging, which can be
applied for women, too.101,103
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abnormal sperm.119 ree studies have found that men who
were underweight or overweight had imbalanced levels of
testosterone and lower sperm count and concentrations.121-123
Incorporating yoga into a daily routine has been found
to be a great way to balance the body in both genders.10,104,105,124
Prior et al86 found it could be benecial to do yoga to reduce
stress and increase the fertility rate, because cortisol levels
can have a signicant eect on fertility. From the current
review, it is clear that yoga can be used to prevent or reduce
obstetric complications53 and improve sexual functions in
women.125 Researchers have suggested that asanas, pranayama,
shavasana, and meditation are related to the cerebrospinal
uid, endocrinal secretion, and the ANS.2,104,105,126-128
CONCLUSIONS
Yoga can help couples experiencing the challenges of
infertility by increasing clarity of mind, maintaining
homeostasis, and giving them real power while undergoing
the therapeutic rigors of ART. When patients recognize the
state of their bodies, they can achieve physical relaxation,
have a better sense of themselves and begin to treat their
problems with more interest and strength. Patients can
report to their doctors more easily about the state of their
bodies and their sensations in ART cycles. Yoga can also
improve fertility rates in ART by diminishing stress and
modifying the body’s hormonal secretions, ANS, genital
health, and sexual arousal. However, these ndings should be
reconrmed by future well-designed, randomized clinical
studies.
AUTHOR DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
No competing nancial interests exist for the authors.
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... Four other studies [19][20][21][22] mainly discussed the mechanism and benefits of some yoga poses, pranayama, and breathing techniques that improve PE, sex life, and performance. Finally, three articles were reviewed and highlighted the effect of yoga intervention on infertility [23][24][25]. Results of these review studies showed that yoga improves sperm count, motility, and prostate secretion in men. It potentially boosts fertility by stimulating hormone levels, improving blood and nutrient supply, and regaining sexual stamina, which can help men facing ED and PE. ...
... Specific practices such as mudras and Moola Bandha can help achieve hormone balance and pelvic awareness, both of which show promise in treating sexual disorders. Seated poses and pranayama can improve pelvic health, reduce stress, and enhance arousal control [21][22][23][24]. Regular yoga practice can positively impact fertility by regulating hormonal balance, reducing stress, improving blood circulation and sexual stamina, and increasing chances of conception, thus improving overall quality of life. ...
... Additionally, yoga was found to increase sperm count, motility, prostate secretion, and overall sexual function, making it a valuable tool for reproductive health [20,24,25]. The study explored the benefits of yoga intervention in adults with infertility and assessed the effects through fertility rates and outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART). ...
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There is increasing concern among both healthcare professionals and the general public about the long-term effectiveness and possible adverse effects of medicines used to treat premature ejaculation (PE) and erectile dysfunction (ED). There is also a growing recognition of the advantages of incorporating alternative or traditional approaches into healthcare systems. Yoga is gaining popularity globally and has emerged as a viable adjunct and alternative to add value to patient care and prevention of illnesses, which requires further investigation. This scoping review aimed to explore the effects of yoga as an independent or adjunct intervention in treating ED and PE. In this review study, researchers conducted a systematic literature review from 2000 to 2023 as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic databases of Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed were used for literature searches. Studies published in the English language on male individuals with ED and PE and those with comorbid stress, anxiety, and depression were also included. Studies on these sexual dysfunctions, comorbid with HIV/AIDS, and severe psychiatric conditions, i.e., schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorders, and substance dependence, except alcohol, were excluded. Ten studies out of the 2016 selected articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The findings of this scoping review revealed that yoga interventions are more effective in managing PE and ED, with a greater emphasis on the former. Yoga is an effective, safe, and affordable approach recommended for managing erectile functions and PE. Men can improve their quality of life and regain confidence in sexual functioning by incorporating yoga into their routines. The study shows the potential benefits of yoga for both conditions, indicating the need for further robust studies in this area. Researchers advocate practising yoga under professional supervision for optimal safety and guidance.
... Research indicates that the regular practice of yoga can lead to improvements in menstrual cycle regularity and alleviate symptoms of menstrual disorders 27 (Tsai SY et al., 2016). Furthermore, studies have shown that specific yoga postures and relaxation techniques can enhance blood flow and hormone production, potentially improving reproductive health and fertility outcomes 28 (Darbandi S et al., 2018). This is particularly relevant for women undergoing fertility treatments, as complementary practices like yoga may enhance treatment efficacy and emotional well-being. ...
... Research indicates that the regular practice of yoga can lead to improvements in menstrual cycle regularity and alleviate symptoms of menstrual disorders 27 (Tsai SY et al., 2016). Furthermore, studies have shown that specific yoga postures and relaxation techniques can enhance blood flow and hormone production, potentially improving reproductive health and fertility outcomes 28 (Darbandi S et al., 2018). This is particularly relevant for women undergoing fertility treatments, as complementary practices like yoga may enhance treatment efficacy and emotional well-being. ...
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Hormonal imbalances can profoundly affect physical and mental health, leading to an array of conditions that can significantly impact the quality of life. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in complementary and alternative therapies that can support hormonal regulation. Yoga, with its holistic approach combining physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, has emerged as a prominent practice not only for physical well-being but also as a potential therapeutic intervention for restoring hormonal balance. This comprehensive research review systematically examines the existing literature surrounding the efficacy of yoga in modulating hormone levels, elucidating its mechanisms of action, and identifying the populations that may benefit most from its practice. The review explores various aspects of yoga, including asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control), and meditation, and analyzes how these elements contribute to physiological changes in the body that can influence hormonal health. Key hormones such as cortisol, insulin, estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones are scrutinized in the context of their responses to yoga practices, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative research findings. This analysis reveals compelling evidence that regular yoga practice may help mitigate stress-induced hormonal fluctuations, improve insulin sensitivity, and regulate the menstrual cycle in women, as well as enhance overall endocrine function. Further, the review investigates the implications of yoga in specific populations, including women experiencing perimenopause and menopause, individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and those suffering from chronic stress or anxiety-related disorders. The inclusion of diverse demographic groups allows for a nuanced understanding of how yoga can be tailored to address specific hormonal issues among varied populations. The review also outlines potential mechanisms by which yoga exerts its influence on the endocrine system, including autonomic nervous system regulation, reduction of sympathetic nervous system overactivity, and modulation of inflammatory pathways. Importantly, emphasis is placed on the need for further empirical studies to deepen our understanding of the relationship between yoga and hormonal balance, particularly randomized controlled trials that can delineate causative effects from correlation. In conclusion, this comprehensive research review highlights the promising role of yoga as a non-invasive and cost-effective intervention for individuals seeking to achieve hormonal harmony in conjunction with conventional medical treatments. By synthesizing existing findings and identifying gaps in the literature, this review aims to provide valuable insights for healthcare practitioners, researchers, and individuals seeking holistic approaches to hormonal health. Future directions for research are proposed, advocating for interdisciplinary studies that further explore the intricate IJFMR250136061 Volume 7, Issue 1, January-February 2025 2 relationship between mind-body practices and hormonal regulation, ultimately enhancing the understanding of how yoga can be effectively integrated into health and wellness paradigms.
... Several studies have investigated the impact of incorporating yoga into the treatment protocols of individuals undergoing ART procedures. [81,82] These studies have demonstrated promising results, suggesting that yoga may enhance the effectiveness of ART and improve overall reproductive outcomes. Yoga interventions have been shown to effectively reduce oxidative stress (OS) and associated DNA damage in gametes. ...
... [88] The integration of yoga with ART may also help individuals and couples cope with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with infertility and fertility treatments. [81] These findings suggest that yoga may positively influence the physiological aspects of the reproductive system, enhancing the chances of successful ART outcomes. It was shown that yoga intervention effectively reduces stress, anxiety, and depression linked to infertility, serving as a potential adjuvant therapy, especially during IVF treatment. ...
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Infertility, a widespread medical condition affecting numerous couples globally, persists as a challenge despite advances in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), often burdened by financial, physical, and emotional strains. Complementary and alternative approaches, notably yoga, have garnered attention for potentially enhancing fertility outcomes. Studies reveal yoga’s influence on factors contributing to infertility, including reduced oxidative stress (OS) and oxidative DNA damage (ODD). OS, linked to mutagenic base formation, higher malondialdehyde levels, abnormal methylation, and altered gene expression, can impair sperm genome integrity. Yoga’s efficacy is evident in lowering OS, positively affecting signal transmission, gene expression, and physiological systems. Furthermore, yoga has a positive impact on addressing the dysregulation of apoptosis, resulting in improved processes such as spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, and motility, while also reducing DNA fragmentation. OS correlates with genome-wide hypomethylation, telomere shortening, and mitochondrial dysfunction, contributing to genome instability. Yoga and meditation significantly reduce OS and ODD, ensuring proper reactive oxygen levels and preserving physiological systems. The review explores potential mechanisms underlying yoga’s positive impact on infertility, including enhanced blood flow, reduced inflammation, relaxation response, and modulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the literature reveals substantial evidence supporting the positive effects of yoga on infertility factors. These include oxidative stress (OS), oxidative DNA damage (ODD), epigenetic changes, hormonal balance, ovarian function, menstrual irregularities, and stress reduction. In summary, yoga emerges as a promising adjunctive therapy for infertility, demonstrating the potential to mitigate key factors influencing reproductive success. Although preliminary evidence indicates the positive effects of yoga on infertility, further clinical research is imperative to define specific benefits, molecular mechanisms associated, optimal protocols, and long-term effects in infertility treatment plans.
... [24] Due to these mechanisms, yoga can improve the assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcome among infertile couples. [60] Combining yoga with other therapies can optimise reproductive outcomes, offering a comprehensive solution that not only targets the underlying biological causes of infertility but also supports mental well-being, ultimately improving the overall efficacy of fertility management approaches. ...
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A BSTRACT Infertility presents multifaceted challenges that encompass both physical and emotional burdens. Yoga, as a comprehensive system of mind–body medicine, serves as an effective intervention for managing male factor infertility, a complex lifestyle disorder with significant psychosomatic elements. This review explores the transformative role of yoga in addressing both the emotional and physical dimensions of infertility. By incorporating physical postures, breath control and meditation, yoga promotes emotional well-being and enhances reproductive health by improving the integrity of nuclear and mitochondrial genomes as well as the epigenome. In addition, yoga contributes to maintaining sperm telomere length through the regulation of seminal free radical levels and increased telomerase activity, which are crucial for optimal embryo cleavage and the development of high-quality blastocysts. Integrating yoga as an adjunctive therapeutic approach fosters a supportive intrauterine environment and facilitates physiological homoeostasis, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful fertilisation and implantation. Gentle asanas and flowing sequences promote relaxation, alleviate tension and cultivate emotional stability, while meditation aids in emotional healing and resilience during the infertility journey. Specific asanas, such as Baddha Konasana (bound angle pose), Bhujangasana (cobra pose) and Sarvangasana (shoulder stand), stimulate reproductive organs, enhance blood circulation and regulate hormone production. Pranayama techniques further support endocrine balance and overall vitality. Moreover, yoga provides a non-invasive strategy for managing fertility-related conditions leading to improved reproductive health and overall well-being. This review aims to elucidate the comprehensive role of yoga in improving male infertility, focusing on its impact on sperm nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, the epigenome and telomere health. In addition, it underscores the importance of self-care, open communication and shared experiences with partners. Practicing yoga regularly supports psychosocial well-being, promotes holistic healing, enhances physical and mental health and probably helps in improving reproductive health, thereby fostering resilience and self-efficacy throughout the journey of fertility and reproduction.
... According to a review by Darbandi et al., yoga may help couples overcome infertility and raise the success rate of assisted reproductive technology by enhancing the physical and mental well-being of both men and women. 27 Before the first IVF treatment, Valoriani et al. ran a 3-month yoga session and discovered that anxiety, depression, and stress levels were considerably lower in the yoga group than in the control group. 18 In the current study, home-based walking was provided to the control group, and the outcomes were not statistically significant. ...
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Introduction The approximate 33% likelihood of conception in vitro fertilization (IVF) therapy often leads to feelings of anxiety, distress, and depression for many women undergoing IVF treatment. Furthermore, most women's chances of conceiving after IVF treatment decrease due to various factors like late age and associated fertility factors. Yoga is a holistic strategy that could provide a platform for women to manage their emotional reactions during and after the IVF treatment process. This research study aimed to investigate the effects of an 8-week structured yoga program (SYP) on the level of anxiety and depression in women undergoing IVF treatment. Materials and methods A total of 102 women undergoing IVF treatment were randomized into two groups—a structured yoga group (SYG) and a home-based walking group (HWG). SYG participants received yoga therapy for a period of 8 weeks, performing 3 days per week lasting for 60 minutes. The Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) were used to evaluate anxiety and depression. Data was analyzed using paired and unpaired t-tests. Results Women who participated in the summer youth program demonstrated significantly reduced levels of anxiety and depression compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusion Participation in a SYP can lead to a significant reduction in perceived levels of anxiety and depression in women who are undergoing IVF treatment. Clinical significance Yoga can be considered an inexpensive and safe therapy that can help women to cater through psychological disturbances faced during and after the IVF procedures. How to cite this article Khandekar NG, Sundarajan DP. Effects of 8-week Structured Yoga Program on Anxiety and Depression among Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Int J Infertil Fetal Med 2024;15(2):77-82.
... While regular physical activity, stress reduction techniques, and a balanced lifestyle contribute to better reproductive health, attributing these effects solely to specific yoga poses oversimplifies the complex interplay of factors involved. Nonetheless, alternative and complementary therapies like yoga have garnered attention for their potential to improve male reproductive health through stress reduction, hormone balance, and overall wellbeing [5]. ...
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This research presents a case study involving a 39-year-old male and his 34-year-old female partner seeking fertility consultation in Maharashtra, India, after struggling to conceive for over three years. Despite the male participant's lack of discernible medical conditions and typical lifestyle, semen analysis revealed severe oligozoospermia attributed to elevated stress levels from his physically demanding occupation and infertility-related emotional strain. The female partner exhibited normal blood parameters, including anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). Embracing holistic approaches, the couple integrated yoga and Yoga Nidra into their daily routine to address stress-induced hormonal imbalances. The customized yoga regimen is aimed at stress reduction and overall well-being, incorporating physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. Yoga Nidra, a guided relaxation technique, was employed to induce profound rest and alleviate stress. Over a 12-week period, the male participant diligently adhered to the regimen, reporting heightened relaxation, improved sleep quality, and reduced stress levels. Semen analysis before and after intervention showed significant improvements in sperm count and motility alongside diminished morphological abnormalities. In parallel, the female partner underwent intrauterine insemination (IUI), resulting in a positive beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) analysis. Weekly follow-ups monitored progress, with supplementation administered as needed. While promising, further research with larger sample sizes and controlled trials is warranted to establish definitive efficacy. Overall, yoga and Yoga Nidra offer noninvasive adjuncts to conventional therapies for male infertility, underscoring the importance of integrating holistic practices into comprehensive fertility management strategies.
... Psychological stress and distress feelings may affect negatively the chances of obtaining viable pregnancy with IVF treatment. 2,3 A study by Crawford et al has revealed that infertile women who screened positive for depression were comparatively less likely to initiate infertility treatment and they also concluded screening for depression as an important criteria. 4 Also, the treatment for fertility itself is stress generating, which increases the chances of failure of the process, hence patient distress is an important factor to consider before treatment initiation. ...
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Infertility is a silent struggle rising rapidly. Women undergoing treatment for infertility experience tremendous stress not only emotionally but socially also. It has been hypothesized that stress can hamper fertility and studies indicate an effective role of yoga in reducing stress. Hence, the review aims to assess if yoga has an effect on stress levels in infertile women thus improving the clinical outcome. Present review was registered on Prospero prospectively (CRD42022336237). A review was carried out to summarize the interventions assessing role of Yoga in reducing stress among women undergoing infertility treatment. Literature search was performed using a pre-defined search strategy on PubMed, Embase, and CTRI along with a manual search of references during the last decade. A total of 2959 articles via database searching and 202 via manual and citation searching were screened. Only two studies were found relevant meeting the inclusion criteria. Three studies with a similar intervention were retrieved but had different study designs and outcomes. All studies supported the recommendation of yoga as a complementary intervention. The review concluded yoga may have the potential in reducing stress thus improving clinical outcomes and suggests Ayush to conceive and plan large scale RCTs on this area to see the effect on clinical outcome.
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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder linked to type II diabetes and the leading cause of female infertility worldwide. Despite being considered a "lifestyle" disease, PCOS has received scant attention in the social science literature. In India, media accounts citing prominent doctors have expressed concern that the syndrome affects a growing number of urban middle-class Indian women. The general public, doctors, and afflicted women all attribute the condition to stress, lifestyle changes, "Westernization," modernization, and disrupted circadian rhythms. These factors are associated with changes in diets, gender roles, and aspirations since 1991, when the introduction of neoliberal reforms opened up the country to processes of globalization. Women with PCOS have come to be seen as living embodiments of the biosocial stresses associated with modern urban middle-class living, and discourse about PCOS serves as commentary indexing anxieties about social and political-economic shifts in the country. In this paper, based on ethnographic fieldwork in Mumbai, India, with 141 participants from 2012 to 2014, we point to local understanding of PCOS as corresponding to an ecosocial perspective that highlights the structural vulnerabilities of urban middle-class women. Whereas most research on structural vulnerabilities and health has centered on economically and otherwise disadvantaged groups, we use PCOS as a case study to draw attention to the rise of lifestyle disorders linked to the impact of globalization and the pressures of "modern" identities and aspirations among middle-class populations.
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