Work Stress and Long Working Hours Hurting Intimacy and Fertility: Doctors Warn Couples

Pune: Increasing work demands, erratic shift schedules, and high stress levels are taking a toll on couples' relationships, leading to declining intimacy, emotional strain, and difficulties in conceiving.

Experts report a rising number of couples seeking medical help for intimacy-related concerns caused by their hectic professional lives. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) are being recommended for those struggling to conceive.

“The current work culture often disrupts natural rhythms, leaving both men and women physically exhausted and emotionally drained. Long working hours, high stress, and lifestyle imbalances take a toll on couples' overall well-being, making it challenging for them to engage in meaningful interactions, including intimacy. When physical and emotional closeness is compromised, it can lead to misunderstandings, stress, and even relationship dissatisfaction. Untimely intercourse, lack of quality time, and reduced emotional bonding due to irregular work shifts are becoming increasingly common concerns. Stress hormones like cortisol can impact libido, making it harder for partners to connect intimately. Six out of ten couples aged 27-35 report issues with intimacy and lower libido due to stress and hectic lifestyles. In my practice, I see four to five couples a week facing these challenges," said Dr. Padma Srivastava, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar, Pune.

Highlighting the link between stress and fertility, Dr. Nisha Pansare, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Kharadi, Pune, said, "Couples facing irregular shift timings, long working hours, and high stress often struggle with maintaining intimacy and emotional connection. The lack of quality time together can lead to misunderstandings, emotional detachment, and conflicts, further straining the relationship. Many couples feel anxious, irritable, burned out, or lonely, which weakens the foundation of their bond. Being constantly stressed increases cortisol levels, interfering with reproductive hormones and affecting ovulation in women and sperm quality in men. Sleep disturbances can also impact fertility and lead to pregnancy challenges. Seven out of ten couples face intimacy issues due to an inability to maintain work-life balance.”

To address these concerns, Dr. Padma emphasized the need for conscious efforts such as setting aside quality time, managing stress effectively, and seeking professional help when necessary. “Striking a better work-life balance, maintaining open communication, and proactive health management are essential to preserving emotional and physical well-being in relationships,” she added.

Dr. Nisha further recommended lifestyle modifications to improve fertility. “To enhance conception chances, couples should focus on maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Ensuring adequate sleep, a nutritious diet, and engaging in physical activity can support reproductive health. Managing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or counseling can also help balance hormones. Seeking early medical advice can help identify and address underlying fertility concerns. Fertility consultants may recommend ARTs such as IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for couples struggling to conceive.”

With increasing stress and lifestyle imbalances affecting modern relationships, experts urge couples to take proactive steps toward their well-being, both emotionally and physically, to improve their chances of conception and maintain a healthy relationship.