Can stress and anxiety cause anovulation?

Generally, high stress and anxiety may lead to anovulation, but this is not always the case. The detailed explanation is as follows:

The human endocrine system is closely linked with the nervous system. When under significant stress or experiencing anxiety, the hypothalamus excessively secretes corticotropin-releasing hormone. This hormone suppresses the pituitary gland's release of gonadotropins, which are key substances regulating ovarian ovulation. Disruption in hormone secretion can lead to abnormal follicular development and impaired maturation, resulting in anovulation. Prolonged negative emotions can also affect the balance of estrogen and progesterone, disrupting the normal menstrual cycle rhythm and worsening ovulatory disorders, thus creating a vicious cycle of "emotional disturbance—endocrine imbalance—anovulation."

In daily life, stress can be alleviated through practices such as meditation and yoga, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule to avoid staying up late. A balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and vitamins is recommended, while spicy and stimulating foods should be minimized. Learning to actively manage emotions, communicating with family and friends, or engaging in enjoyable activities to shift focus can also be beneficial. If pregnancy does not occur after prolonged attempts and is accompanied by emotional anxiety, timely medical consultation is advised to evaluate endocrine function and ovulation status. When necessary, combining psychological intervention with medical treatment can help improve overall condition.