Stress in Your Body Systems Template

Female Reproductive System

When stressed:

• Absent or irrgeular menstrual cycles
• Painful periods
• Changes in the length of cycles
• Reduction of sexual desire
• Pregnancy complications for mother and baby
• Postpartum adjustment
• Increases likelihood of developing depression and anxiety during pregnancy
• Worsening of premenstrual symptoms

Musculoskeletal System

When body is stressed:

• Muscles tense up & when tense for long periods of time it can cause headaches, migraine
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Muscle atrophy

Gastrointestinal System

When stressed:

• Can affect brain-gut communication
• Can trigger pain, bloating, nausea & other gut discomfort to be felt more easily
• Changes in gut bacteria which can influence mood
• Early life stress can increase risk for later gut diseases/dysfunctioning
• Eating much more or less than usual
• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Rare case of spasms in the esophagus
• Make swallowing oof difficult
• Increase amount of air swallowed
• Increases burping, gassiness & bloating
• Ulcers may be more bothersome

Respiratory System

When stressed:

• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Since airway between the nose & lungs constricts
• Can worsen breathing problems for people with pre-existing respiratory diseases
• Can trigger asthma attacks
• Can cause panic attacks