BLUF
New research suggests cortisol is not inherently harmful to fertility. A review found natural cortisol rises often coincide with ovulation—indicating it may actually support reproduction—while earlier studies may have overstated cortisol’s negative effects.Learning Outcomes
- Explain the biological role of cortisol and describe how its natural fluctuations support essential physiological functions, including metabolism, immune function, sleep regulation, and reproduction.
- Evaluate the limitations of earlier cortisol research by distinguishing between the effects of natural cortisol patterns and the use of synthetic cortisol in experimental studies.
- Analyse emerging evidence on cortisol and fertility and discuss how natural increases in cortisol may contribute to ovulation and healthy reproductive processes across animal species.
