To deal with infertility is something very taxing, both physically and emotionally. But you are not alone in this journey. Another thing is that there is always hope. You can become a parent, either through assisted reproductive technology like IVF, or surrogacy, or adoption. A family can be built. A child will come into your life.
You need to focus on taking care of yourself too while focusing on getting pregnant and building a family. Both your body as well as your mind need your special care during these days. While you follow the guidelines given by your doctor, regarding diet, exercise, and meditation, make it a point to consider and take care of your other needs, and find out the required time for the same.
Try to follow these self-care methods when you are on your fertility journey:
Take a Break
Since dealing with infertility is something very important for you, chances are that you will be engrossed in it. Other parts of your life can be affected and it may be quite overwhelming for you. Thinking about it always can bring you down. So, make it a point that you take a break from thinking and talking about infertility and your treatment cycle. Engage in something that makes you happy. It might seem difficult but you have to think about something else. It can be watching your favorite movie, a long walk, working in your garden, playing a game, or reading a book. Feel relaxed with anything that brings you joy.
Be kind to yourself
Do not be hard on yourself. It’s not your fault. You may tend to blame yourself and direct your anger and frustration inwards. You have to acknowledge your negative feelings and feel them. But at the same time, be gentle with yourself, even if things are not working according to your plans. You need to be kind to yourself.
Practice Mindfulness
Struggling with infertility brings in stress. And stress due to this reason can go on to hinder pregnancy. Ovulation can be affected by stress hormones. Stress also causes anxiety which takes a toll on your daily activities. One of the best ways to handle your negative thoughts and feelings is to practice mindfulness or meditation. There are different forms and different methods to perform meditation. You can learn meditation from books, websites, phone apps, or local studio classes. Choose a silent spot and concentrate deep within to experience peace and come to terms with your stressful feelings.
Do Yoga
Yoga is a great way to improve both physical and mental health. The physical benefits of yoga include improved strength, flexibility, breathing, bone health, and sleep quality. The psychological benefits you can acquire from Yoga are improved focus, stress relief, and an increase in happiness. Yoga classes and programs are available for women undergoing infertility treatment.
Get moving outside
Regular exercise is very essential for your overall wellness, particularly when you are dealing with infertility. Keeping your body active and healthy by regular exercise increases the chances of conceiving and is highly beneficial for your mind as well. You can follow your exercise routine in the exteriors and that is a welcome change. Fresh air and surroundings will be soothing for you and will uplift your mind. So choose a nice and beautiful spot for your long walks, hikes, and bike rides and calm your mind.
Talk to someone
Talking about something like infertility to someone other than your partner is difficult, but it helps in the long run. It will give you the much- needed relief. You can talk to a professional counselor or trained therapist or seek help from infertility support groups.
Through infertility support groups, you can share your experiences. You get comfort and you are relieved that there are people like you, who can understand your feelings as they are going through the same conditions.
A counselor can help you come up with strategies to cope with your feelings. You can speak to your counselor one-on-one. Sometimes the hospital you are undergoing your infertility treatment in, may link you to counseling support.
You should see a professional counselor if you have the following symptoms:
Depression, feelings of guilt, sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness that persist, anxiety, marital problems, mood swings, changes in appetite, social isolation, changes in sleeping patterns, inability to think of anything other than your fertility.
Goodwill IVF Treatment Center, one of the best IVF treatment hospitals in Kerala, has a team of experienced and caring specialists who understand your heartbreaking journey and reach out to you extending arms of heartfelt support. We work together with counselors to mitigate your stress-related issues. We lend a patient ear to your story and make your dreams of parenthood come true.
