Baby Dust & Holiday Magic: Using December to Support Your Fertility
For many of us, December is a time to step away from work, slow down, and enjoy meaningful moments with friends and family. If you’re trying to conceive, this season of rest can offer a natural window of opportunity.
With fewer deadlines, more downtime, and a bit of festive cheer, you may find yourself feeling more relaxed, something that can gently support your reproductive health.
While stress alone is rarely the sole cause of infertility, chronic stress can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance needed for conception in both partners. Giving your mind and body a chance to unwind during the holidays may help create a more supportive environment for trying to conceive (TTC).
How stress can impact fertility
When your body stays in a prolonged “fight-or-flight” mode, it releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, this can interfere with the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and LH.
This may lead to:
Irregular or absent ovulation in women, making conception difficult or impossible in that cycle.
Lower testosterone and reduced sperm quality (count, motility, and morphology) in men.
Decreased libido in both partners, reducing the frequency of intercourse.
Unhealthy coping habits, including poor sleep, poor diet, or increased alcohol and tobacco use, all of which can negatively affect fertility.
A stress–TTC loop, where the pressure to conceive creates more stress, which then further affects fertility.
The benefits of relaxation during the holidays
Relaxation helps shift the body from “fight-or-flight” to “rest-and-digest,” a much more conducive state for reproductive health. Research shows that mind–body practices that reduce stress can improve mental well-being and may even increase pregnancy rates in some cases.
And the holiday season, when the world collectively exhales, offers a unique opportunity to reset.
Practical ways to relax when TTC this holiday season
The key is to weave small, manageable habits into your daily life. Here are some TTC-friendly ways to unwind and make the most of the festive break:
Practice mindfulness and meditation
Deep breathing, guided imagery, or meditation can help lower cortisol and regulate your nervous system. Several great apps can walk you through short, calming routines, perfect for holiday downtime.
Prioritize sleep
Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep. A consistent bedtime, less screen time before bed, and a calming nighttime routine can support hormone regulation.
Enjoy moderate exercise
Gentle activities like walking on the beach, hiking, swimming, or restorative yoga release endorphins and reduce stress without overloading your body.
Seek connection and support
Use this family-focused season to open up to your partner or trusted friends. If you need a community that understands the TTC journey, consider joining our fertility support Facebook group.
Keep your hobbies alive
Whether it’s baking, reading by the fire, crafting, or spending time outdoors—prioritise the things that bring you joy and help you reconnect with yourself beyond the TTC process.
Take intentional breaks from TTC pressure
Plan a relaxing weekend away, enjoy festive outings, or give yourself a month off from ovulation tracking and timing. Reframing intimacy as a connection rather than a chore can make a big difference.
The holiday season is a beautiful reminder to slow down and nurture what matters most. Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as caring for your physical health when trying to conceive. Whether this December is a time of hope, healing, or simply rest, be gentle with yourself, you deserve calm, comfort, and support on this journey.
If you need help going through any block, talking with a TTC consultant can help! Book a FREE 15-minute virtual consult today!
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