Coping with infertility can be extremely stressful for couples. Patients who undergo infertility treatments, such as IVF, can easily become overwhelmed by the process of overcoming infertility. Researching best treatment methods for their individual circumstances, discussing issues with their physicians, making and keeping appointments, and dealing with any of the side effects of taking certain treatment medications, are all part of the arduous process of trying to conceive.
Couples who are dealing with the stress of infertility may exhibit a multitude of feelings that can include low self-esteem, depression, anger, anxiety or even denial. Each person is unique and so is his or her reaction to stress.
Having a plan in place for dealing with this natural anxiousness is fundamental to maintaining mental health well-being, but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to reducing and coping with infertility stress. We suggest trying several methods to find a stress-reduction plan that fits your individual needs:
- Behavior modification is one approach that aims to shift your natural stress response to a relaxation response. When feeling anxious, angry or depressed, try incorporating simple yoga stretches into your daily routine, or make time to partake in something you’ve always enjoyed, such as reading, painting or writing.
- Support groups that offer an outlet to voice your frustrations and learn from others’ first-hand experiences are another approach to reducing stress. One example of a support group is Resolve, an initiative by the National Infertility Association that builds relationships between infertility patients based on their location.
- Acknowledging your feelings of stress as a normal part of the infertility process is also important. Learning to recognize your stressors and having a plan in place to help deal with and reduce your stress levels will allow you to feel more in control of yourself and the situation.
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