Navigating the emotional and physical rollercoaster that is in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be incredibly challenging. The process can often feel overwhelming, leaving many dealing with feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. But taking control of how you approach the IVF journey, and staying positive and calm even during the toughest times, can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with effective strategies and insights to help transform your IVF journey into one filled with positivity, ultimately leading you toward a successful pregnancy.
How to Stay Positive and Regain Control During IVF
Embarking on the journey of IVF can be challenging. In this section, we’ll share valuable tools and strategies to help you stay positive, regain control, and navigate family building.
Know Your Key Pregnancy Milestones
Knowledge of key pregnancy milestones can help you prepare. For example, knowing your due date can give you a deadline for family planning tasks, like preparing the nursery. But, if you’re undergoing IVF, you can’t calculate your due date using traditional gestational age methods.
Instead of the date of your last period, you would use the age of the embryo and the date of transfer. The calculation depends on the type of IVF. You could use Flo’s due date calculator for in-vitro fertilization to make this process easier.
Focus on Your Health and Wellness
Focusing on your health and wellness is great advice, whether you’re on IVF or not. With that said, many women don’t meet the recommendations for healthful nutrition and weight before pregnancy. This can make it very difficult for them to conceive or carry the baby to term.
If you want to improve your fertility, then you must eat better. Fortunately, eating healthier is something that may be in your control. Be sure to get a blood test to check if there are any nutrients that you’re missing. Then, speak to a nutritionist who can help you get on track.
Take Control by Saying “No”
We all have a hard time saying “no,” but don’t underestimate its power. Too often, we say “yes” to please others. But in the process, we forget our own needs. Saying “yes” too often, especially when we’re drained, can give us less time alone, lead to feelings of anger or stress, and make us sick.
To get used to saying “no,” remind yourself that your feelings matter. Only say “yes” to things when you feel good, and cancel when you don’t. The people around you should understand that you can’t stretch yourself too thin right now, and that you need more time to relax.
Prepare for the Emotional Side of IVF
Women who are experiencing stress and distress while going through IVF treatments are more likely to have a poorer ovarian functional response. For this reason, it’s vital to speak to other people who are going through fertility treatment, as it can improve your resilience to stress.
While it isn’t abnormal for us to disconnect from our social circle when we’re depressed or stressed, this can often make our mental health worse. Be sure to surround yourself with people who love and respect you and will be there to support you through this turbulent journey.
Be Kind to Yourself and Take Breaks
It’s unfortunately common for women to be blamed for infertility, but know that you’re not to blame. Getting pregnant is difficult. Healthy couples in their 20s and 30s only have a 25% chance of conceiving in any single menstrual cycle, and infertility issues are rarely the fault of one person alone.
And not only that, IVF can be difficult on the body, not just the mind. Make sure you stay kind to yourself while going through IVF and take breaks if necessary. Never downplay the effects treatment is having on you. Understand that you deserve to feel healthy and well.
Speak to a Counsellor or Therapist
Depression is unfortunately common in women experiencing infertility or who think they may not be fertile. Up to 40% of these women have a psychiatric diagnosis, which is usually anxiety or depression. Feeling distressed during the IVF process is a major reason for discontinuation.
The psychological toll of infertility and IVF are well documented, but so are treatment measures. Cognitive behavioral therapy can improve anxiety and depression in women. Don’t be afraid to seek help if your symptoms are interfering with your daily routine.
Choose the Right Fertility Clinic
One of the best things you can do to take control of your IVF situation is choosing your fertility clinic. Not all fertility clinics are created equally, and you’ll want to find someone who’s trustworthy. After all, trust in healthcare professionals can lead to better health outcomes.
Patients who are more informed about fertility options are also more prepared when making fertility decisions. Before you settle on a clinic, ask yourself if you could share your deep physical and emotional experiences with the team and whether or not you like them.
In Conclusion…
As you navigate your IVF journey, remember that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, to pause, take a breath, and recollect yourself. Embrace the process, knowing each step is bringing you closer to your goal. Apply these strategies and keep your spirit high—even in the face of adversity.